James Montgomery Flagg. American. (1877-1960)
Lady Ascending the Stairs. Cosmopolitan, December 1927
Pen, Ink and Pencil. Signed.
Inscribed verso: 'Cosmopolitan, December issue 1927'
Image: 26x 55cm. Framed: 39cmx 68.5cm
(Reference: 857) Price: £875
A vivacious and vital work which perfectly encapsulates a period of style and glamour.
Born 18th June, Pelham Manor, New York. JMF was a prolific illustrator, poster-maker and designer for advertising campaigns. Between 1894 and 1898, he attended the Art Students League of NY. He travelled to London and Paris to study Fine Art, returning to America in 1900. JMF worked for books, produced countless magazine covers and illustrations.
in 1917, James produced his most famous poster for the World War One effort, 'I WANT YOU FOR THE US ARMY', it portrayed Uncle Sam pointing out to potential recruits. It was so overwhelmingly popular that it was adapted for use in WW2. Flagg was a member of the first Civilian Preparedness Committee in NY in 1917 and served also the Committee of Pictorial Publicity for the government. JMF produced over 46 works for the war effort. Flagg died on 27th May 1960.
N.B. any unevenness in the colour of the paper/mount is due to the reflection, as the picture is glazed.