"Defender of Her Homeland" Lot no. 3975
By Frank Robert Harper (1876-1948)
1920s (Estimated)
25.00" x 18.00"
Oil on Canvas
Signed Lower Right
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F.R. Harper's striking painting captures the spirit of French resilience in the wake of World War I. A resolute young woman stands amidst the ruins of a ravaged village against the backdrop of a fiery sky. She stands heroically, clutching a rifle and bayonet as the French flag billows around her. This powerful illustration, commissioned by the Gerlach-Barklow calendar company, embodies the sacrifices made during the Great War and the hope for a brighter future.
Known for his idyllic Indian Maiden illustrations, Harper shifted his focus to wartime imagery during the early 20th century. This painting, likely created in the early 1920s, reflects the period of heightened Franco-American friendship following the Armistice.
Explore related art collections: Newly Researched / 1920s / $100 - $5,000 / Women as Subjects / Calendar Art / Patriotic/Political / Military/Soldiers / Violence/Guns
See all original artwork by Frank Robert Harper
ABOUT THE ARTIST
A children's book illustrator, newspaper artist and designer in the automobile industry, Frank Harper did drawings for books, Forgetful Bear, 1942 and Unhappy Rabbit, 1943. He was on the staff of the Detroit Free Press in 1935 and a designer for General Motors Corporation, 1944-45.
Frank Harper studied at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Kendall Art School in Grand Rapids. He also exhibited artwork at the Art Institute of Chicago, 1930 and 1933.
He lived in Grand Rapids, Michigan where he was a member of the Grand Rapids Art Association and Art Guild.