Hy (Henry) Hintermeister (American, 1897-1970). Achievement, The Scout Executive Equipment Catalog cover, 1928-29. Oil o...

Description

Hy (Henry) Hintermeister (American, 1897-1970)
Achievement, The Scout Executive Equipment Catalog cover, 1928-29
Oil on canvas
24 x 18 inches (61.0 x 45.7 cm)
Signed lower right: Hy Hintermeister

Property from the BSA Settlement Trust, Sold for the Benefit of Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

LITERATURE:
The Scout Executive Equipment Catalog, 1928-29, cover, illustrated.

Hy Hintermeister's paintings, Achievement and Adventure, created for the 1928-29 and 1929-30 covers of The Scout Executive Equipment Catalog, respectively, capture the spirit of the Boy Scouts of America during the early 20th century. These works exemplify the values of scouting-courage, perseverance, and imagination-through vivid depictions of young scouts engaged in reflective and aspirational moments. Hintermeister, known for his commercial illustrations, often infused his works with a sense of optimism and adventure, which aligns well with the scouting ethos of character-building and exploration.

In Achievement, a young scout sits by a campfire, contemplatively gazing into the flames. Above him, a ghostly blue vignette of pioneers or frontiersmen evokes the past, connecting the scout's current journey to a lineage of explorers. The composition reflects both reflection and inspiration, using the contrasting warmth of the fire and the cool tones of the visionary image above to symbolize the scout's growing sense of purpose.

In Adventure, Hintermeister depicts a young scout standing tall, proudly saluting while holding a flag bearing the scout emblem. Behind him, a globe surrounded by flags from various nations symbolizes the global reach and camaraderie of the Boy Scouts movement. The scout's gaze is fixed ahead, suggesting a readiness for new challenges and exploration. The use of vibrant colors-particularly the scout's red neckerchief and the deep blue of the globe-creates a dynamic composition that conveys a sense of courage and determination. With distant mountains and soaring birds in the background, the painting evokes the thrill of adventure, inspiring scouts to explore both the natural world and the wider global community.

Together, these paintings serve as more than just catalog covers. They are visual narratives that underscore the transformative power of scouting, encouraging boys to embrace adventure, face the unknown with confidence and integrity, and pursue paths of lifelong learning and international brotherhood.

Opening Bid: $2,000


More information about Hy (Henry) Hintermeister. See also: Hintermeister, Hy (Henry) Artist.

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