A finely detailed intricate 1920s illustration by noted comic artist and illustrator Jay Irving. This differs from his often times loose and quickly rendered interior comic gag cartoon style, as it is a much more detailed and intricately rendered work.

I am presuming it was used as a cover for Judge magazine as there is a large border in the upper portion for the title of the magazine to be added, and the appearance, size of work, date of illustration board, and subject matter would fit the magazine’s tone and overall aesthetic.

Above: Verso of illustration board

The discovery of King Tut’s (King Tutahkhamun) tomb in 1923 incited a craze for Egyptian motifs in the art deco period decorative arts and jewelry. This has come to be referred to as Art Deco Egyptian.

Stones which had been used in King Tut’s jewelry, like lapis lazuli, carnelian, and chalcedony, became popular and functional design mimicked this pop culture fascination with all things Egyptian.

This craze was also reflected in the printed period visual arts, with gag cartoons, glamour portraiture, and mainstream American calendar art reflecting this far away exotic mysterious bent.