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Home / Art & Antiques / 2009 July Signature Illustration Art Auction Auction #7010 / Lot #87325
    LOT #87325  | 
    Sold on Jul 16, 2009 for: Sign-in or Join (free & quick)

    ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Esquire calendar girl, December 1946. Watercolor on board. 28 x 22 in.. Not signed...

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    • Paintings, ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Esquire calendar girl, December 1946. Watercolor on board. 28 x 22 in.. Not signed...
    • Paintings, ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Esquire calendar girl, December 1946. Watercolor on board. 28 x 22 in.. Not signed...
    Paintings, ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Esquire calendar girl, December 1946. Watercolor on board. 28 x 22 in.. Not signed... Paintings, ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982). Esquire calendar girl, December 1946. Watercolor on board. 28 x 22 in.. Not signed... View More >
    Sold on Jul 16, 2009 for: Sign-in or Join (free & quick)
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    Description

    ALBERTO VARGAS (American, 1896-1982)
    Esquire calendar girl, December 1946
    Watercolor on board
    28 x 22 in.
    Not signed
    Charles Martignette has noted, "The Esquire Varga Girls of World War II were the most important of his career. This is one of only two known Vargas Esquire calendar girl paintings in private circulation. Of the 72 originals published as calendar illustrations this painting and one other are the only two originals that are privately owned and not part of the Esquire Corporation Collection which is now owned and residing at the University of Kansas' Spencer Library. To use the word 'rare' in describing the importance of this painting would be an understatement. It is one of only two in the world that can ever be owned by a private collector from the famous and legendary Varga Girl Esquire Calendar series (1941-46)."

    Note that none of Vargas' paintings were hand signed during the forties while he worked for Esquire. The publisher, David Smart, asked Vargas not to sign his originals because the publisher wanted to use a mechanical "slug" signature in the printing process. This was so that the printer could change the position of the signature to suit the magazine's technical needs. This policy applied to both the monthly centerfold and the series created for the famous Varga calendars published each year.

    From the Estate of Charles Martignette    .

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



    Condition Report*: There are some stains at the bottom left and right of the board; 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: 13
    Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
    Page Views: 6,675

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

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    Sold on Jul 16, 2009 for: Sign-in or Join (free & quick)
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