J.C. Leyendecker. Flowers for the President. Study for illustration commissioned by the Lincoln National Life Insurance Company of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Oil on canvas. 23.5 x 27.25 in. List: $105,000
With this newsletter, we invite you to explore our large collection of preliminary studies, a foundational aspect of artistic creation. Far more than simple sketches, these deliberate drawings and paintings offer a window into the meticulous artistic process behind a finished masterpiece, revealing how artists like Norman Rockwell and J.C. Leyendecker refined their ideas, tested compositions, and perfected every detail.
Our collection holds a wealth of these unique works, each a compelling artwork in its own right and a testament to the artist’s skill and thoughtful approach. While Howard Pyle, Norman Rockwell, and Maxfield Parrish often used reference photos and their own photography to develop their ideas, J.C. Leyendecker preferred drawing directly from life, sketching figures in full-color oil paint as he tested various gestures and poses in incredible nuanced detail, often on the same canvas.
For both new and seasoned collectors, studies offer a special opportunity. They not only provide deep insights into the history of a particular artwork, but also make it possible to own original works by some of the most celebrated illustrators at a more accessible price point. We are especially excited to feature several unique pairings where you can acquire both the preliminary study and the final published version, creating a powerful and engaging display that celebrates the creative journey from concept to completion.
We invite you to explore our full collection of preliminary studies and discover the artistry behind the masterpieces.
Norman Rockwell. The Fireman. Study for cover of The Saturday Evening Post, published May 27, 1944. Oil and graphite on paperboard. 14 x 11 in. List: $525,000
Reference image of the model Howard Lewis, to whom Rockwell gifted The Fireman oil study. A copy of this photograph signed by Rockwell and dedicated to Lewis accompanies the purchase of the artwork.
Norman Rockwell. The Gift, Child’s Surprise. Study for cover of The Saturday Evening Post, January 25, 1936. Charcoal on paper mounted on board. 35 x 28 in. List: $475,000
Norman Rockwell. Father’s Day. Study for Interwoven advertisement, published 1935. Graphite on paper. 31.5 x 25.25 in. List: $195,000
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- Study: Charcoal on paper. 18 x 34.5 in. List: $95,000
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- Final: Oil on canvas. 14.5 x 37.25 in. List: $550,000
Browse all available artwork by Norman Rockwell here
J.C. Leyendecker. Irish Liberty. Study for cover of The Saturday Evening Post, published March 18, 1922. Oil on canvas. 20.75 x 16.5 in. List: $55,000
J.C. Leyendecker. Study for Kuppenheimer Clothing advertisement. Oil on canvas. 32.5 x 24 in. List: $49,000
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- Study (left): Oil and pencil on canvas laid down on board. 19.25 x 12 in. List: $90,000
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- Final (right): Oil on canvas. 31 x 24.25 in. List: $310,000
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- Study: Oil on canvas. 14 x 11.2 in. List: $25,000
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- Final: Oil on canvas. 26 x 21 in. List: $285,000
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- Study: Oil on canvas. 18 x 14 in. List: $60,000
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- Final: Oil on canvas. 32 x 24 in. List: $450,000
Browse all available artwork by J.C. Leyendecker here
Maxfield Parrish. “Fisk Tires – Fit for a King.” Study for Fisk Rubber Company advertisement selling cord tires, circa 1918. Oil on paperboard. 3.5 x 7.25 in. List: $149,000
Browse all available artwork by Maxfield Parrish here
Howard Pyle. The First Settlement on Manhattan Island. Study for mural in the historic County Courthouse in Hudson County, New Jersey, commissioned in 1910. Oil on canvas. 16.375 x 71.5 in. List: $175,000