Above: The New Yorker, May 2, 1931

An inventive and forward thinking “progress through industry” original gouache illustration painting by Theodore Haupt. This was commissioned by The New Yorker magazine and used as their May 2, 1931 cover. The imagery attempts to put a positive spin on the Great Depression using modernism, industry and the technological advances of the Machine Age as rallying points in this bustling New York City cityscape.

Above: View on illustration board before framing

Above: Notations on margins

Above: Margin date showing original usage

Above: Verso view

Theodore G. Haupt, illustrated forty four of The New Yorker’s covers between 1927 and 1933.

The New Yorker published by Conde-Nast premiered on February 21, 1925. For over 85 years, it has offered a signature mix of culture and art, business and politics, fashion, design, and science and technology. The New Yorker’s exceptional cover art has been just as remarkable as its content, featuring a broad spectrum of artists.
Haupt’s inventive art deco style was very popular during this time, original New Yorker cover paintings from this the golden age of Illustration are exceedingly scarce and this is a defining example.

Painting is beautifully framed and matted behind glass in a handsome gallery frame.