Four original, period illustrations by Neysa McMein (1888-1949), a celebrated female artist who enjoyed tremendous success during the Golden Age of American Illustration. Born in Quincy, Illinois, McMein became one of the most sought-after cover artists of her era, creating iconic portraits of beautiful women for America's leading magazines.
The Artist:
Neysa McMein was a trailblazing illustrator whose elegant Art Nouveau and Art Deco portraits graced the covers of McClure's, The Saturday Evening Post, Woman's Home Companion, McCall's, and Cosmopolitan. Her work captured the sophistication and opulence of the Gilded Age while establishing her as one of the most successful female artists of the early 20th century.
The Collection Includes:
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McClure's Magazine Cover - December 1917, 14" × 11"
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Woman's Home Companion Cover - October 1922, 14" × 11"
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The Saturday Evening Post Cover - January 1939, 14" × 11"
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Portrait (postcard-sized) - Beautiful woman portrait in McMein's signature style
All four pieces feature McMein's masterful portraits of beautiful women, rendered in the Art Nouveau/Art Deco style that defined the era's aesthetic.
Condition:
Good condition for period pieces spanning over two decades of publication. The magazine covers show honest signs of age—edge wear to varying degrees on all three, some small tears at the edges, and a small piece missing from the upper right-hand corner of The Saturday Evening Post cover. However, the colors on all four pieces remain fantastic and vibrant, preserving the beauty and elegance that made McMein's work so captivating. The smaller portrait is in excellent condition.
Historical Significance:
This collection spans 22 years of McMein's career (1917-1939), showcasing her enduring appeal and artistic evolution. These pieces represent the achievements of a pioneering female illustrator who helped define the visual language of the Gilded Age and the Golden Age of American Illustration.
A remarkable collection celebrating one of the era's most talented and successful female artists.
