William Steig: On Background

An original cartoon by William Steig was sold yesterday at auction in Avon, Connecticut. The setting is an artist's studio. A self-confident metropolitan man in a three-piece suit sits for a portrait and gives a very specific instruction to the painter. The style suggests this work dates from the early 1930s. The printing history is unknown. An inscription may or may not indicate publication in Collier's.

"Put islands in the background, please."
William Steig

Carrying a pre-sale estimate of $600 to $900, the drawing has several things going for it. Some ninety years on, this gag may have acquired some added relevance in the Zoom era. The frame is included with a double matte, and all appear to be good looking and in good shape.

"Put ilands islands in the background, please."
Sat 10 Aug 3? Collier's?

William Steig
Trinity International Auctions & Appraisals, LLC
June 5, 2021

https://www.invaluable.com/auction-lot/WILLIAM-STEIG-AMERICAN-1907-2003-130-c-F994A6C818?utm_source=alerts&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=inv_artistalert&utm_term=2

Sold!

June 8, 2021 Update:  A reader suggests that the notation reads, “Sat 10 am 3 cols” Followed by something that is not Collier's.


Note:  I wish to hear from anyone who can locate where this cartoon was first printed. Should it become available, I intend to add the information to this post.

In my view and possibly in yours, original art by William Steig is generally a good topic for a blog post. Please send photos and scans and tell me what you know.

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