Above: Artwork on larger notated illustration board

In a departure from their typical flapper cover, John Holmgren created this nostalgic depiction of a ruddy pair in Colonial fashion laden down with gifts for the long-running humor magazine’s December 1933 “Christmas Number” issue. Historical fantasy themes proved a popular escapist subject matter during Great Depression, and Holmgren’s whimsical gouache on board is a delightful example of the genre. A complete printed issue of the magazine accompanies the painting.  Please note, the pink pigment in the gouache has significantly faded over the years due to the nature of materials available during the lean years when this was created.

Work is nicely matted and framed and has a light pencil signature lower left in the artwork as does the printed magazine cover version.