JOSEPH CHRISTIAN LEYENDECKER (American, 1874-1951). Century Magazine Poster Contest Submission, 1896. Gold leaf, pastel,...

Description

JOSEPH CHRISTIAN LEYENDECKER (American, 1874-1951)
Century Magazine Poster Contest Submission, 1896
Gold leaf, pastel, and pencil on paper
24 x 18.25 in.

In August, 1896, Leyendecker received national recognition for his work when he won a Century Magazine poster design competition for this illustration of a young lady carrying flowers in her skirt. The second place winner (out of approximately 700 designs submitted) was Maxfield Parrish. This is perhaps the most important early image by Leyendecker, and indeed this poster can be seen as the major springboard for his long and storied career. This winning design is extremely close in appearance to the final poster art.

PROVENANCE:
Gifted by the artist to Augusta Leyendecker (sister), date unknown;
Gifted by Augusta Leyendecker to artist Orson Lowell (a close friend of the artist), 1952;
Gifted by Orson Lowell to (Charles) Matlack Price (poster historian who authored the definitive 1913 book Poster Design), 1953;
By descent to current owner.

More information about JOSEPH CHRISTIAN LEYENDECKER. See also: Leyendecker, Joseph Christian, Joseph Christian Leyendecker Artist.

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