Original Maxfield Parrish cover to Collier's Christmas Number, 1906

This enchanting Christmas cover features Parrish's signature artistry: a laurel wreath adorned with "Collier's Christmas Number" at its center and a festive bow on top. Beneath the wreath, a young child sits up in bed, opening a Christmas stocking, while the boughs of a large tree hang through a window behind—a scene that captures the wonder and warmth of the holiday season.

Historical Significance

This cover was produced during a pivotal six-year period (1904–1910) when Parrish signed an exclusive contract with Collier's Weekly. Under this agreement, he received a monthly salary and retained ownership of his original paintings, allowing him the creative freedom to experiment with and refine his iconic, luminous style. This piece represents a moment when both America and Parrish were coming into their own—the nation establishing its cultural identity on the world stage, and the artist developing the inimitable aesthetic that helped define the Golden Age of American illustration.

Condition

For a piece of paper celebrating its 120th birthday, this cover is in very good condition:

• Light creasing at the bottom, invisible except upon close inspection and not intruding into the image
• Minimal toning to the white background, commensurate with age
• A tiny tear in the upper left-hand corner
• One small discoloration (approximately the size of a pencil eraser head) toward the lower right-hand corner, outside the illustration itself
• No other tears or foxing evident

Framing & Dimensions

Housed in its original, period solid wood frame.

• Framed dimensions: approximately 16.25" × 11.5"
• Visible image: approximately 14.5" × 9.5"

"Drawn by Maxfield Parrish" is centered at the bottom of the page—a mark of authenticity and a testament to the artist's hand.

This is a rare opportunity to own a culturally and historically significant piece from one of America's most beloved illustrators.