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Home / Art & Antiques / 2009 July Signature Illustration Art Auction Auction #7010 / Lot #87326
    LOT #87326  | 
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    ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Reclining Nude, Preliminary Drawing for the Very First Varga Girl, October 1940. M...

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    • Paintings, ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Reclining Nude, Preliminary Drawing for the Very First Varga Girl, October 1940. M...
    • Paintings, ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Reclining Nude, Preliminary Drawing for the Very First Varga Girl, October 1940. M...
    • Paintings, ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Reclining Nude, Preliminary Drawing for the Very First Varga Girl, October 1940. M...
    Paintings, ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Reclining Nude, Preliminary Drawing for the Very First Varga Girl, October 1940. M... Paintings, ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Reclining Nude, Preliminary Drawing for the Very First Varga Girl, October 1940. M... Paintings, ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Reclining Nude, Preliminary Drawing for the Very First Varga Girl, October 1940. M... View More >
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    Description

    ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982)
    Reclining Nude, Preliminary Drawing for the Very First Varga Girl, October 1940
    Mixed-media on parchment on board
    26 x 39 in.
    Signed lower left
    This historic piece was reproduced on page 12 of Varga The Esquire Years A Catalog Raisonné by Reid Stewart Austin, St. James Press, 1987.

    Mr. Austin wrote, "Esquire introduced the gatefold, previously limited to mostly small-circulation European art magazines in its December 1939 issue. Despite the fact that the Petty Girl failed to appear -- George Petty wanted extra money for the gatefolds and to the discomfiture of Esquire, sat out the entire year of 1940 -- the gatefolds proved such a sensation that starting in April 1940, Esquire provided not one, but three, in every issue. Esquire began casting about for a replacement for Petty, but found no one that met with the readership's satisfaction. Finally on a sunny day in 1940, Alberto Vargas, seeking work, was interviewed at Esquire's New York offices. Amid much hoopla, the first Varga Girl appeared in the October 1940 issue: the gatefold had been introduced to the image that would make it famous."

    Mr. Austin has also noted, "This parchment drawing, after being flopped and turned upright became the first Varga Girl."

    From the Estate of Charles Martignette    .

    More information about ALBERTO VARGAS, also known as Vargas, Alberto, Alberto Vargas.



    Condition Report*: This piece is framed to an overall size of  27 x 40 in. There are tape stains and edge an corner wear; otherwise, this lot is in good condition with only normal wear commensurate with age.
    *Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

    Auction Info

    Auction Dates
    July, 2009
    15th Wednesday
    Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 15
    Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
    Page Views: 12,862

    Buyer's Premium per Lot:
    19.5% of the successful bid (minimum $14) per lot.

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