Constantin Alajálov: American Co-eds in Naples

Both The Saturday Evening Post and The New Yorker had their cover artists under exclusive agreements. There was to be no overlap between the illustrators on their respective rosters. Constantin Alajálov, though, was the proverbial exception that proved the rule, contributing brilliant covers to both weekly magazines.

His Post cover of August 2, 1958 is called Coed Tourists in Italy by Heritage Auctions, which sold the original art yesterday. The point, though, is that they are Americans abroad, and the local Neapolitan populace is fascinated by these capable, independent, young women getting ready to go back to college in New Haven. The women may indeed be tourists in Italy, but they are also unwitting cultural ambassadors.

Kenneth J. Stuart, Sr., was the art director of the Post from 1944 to 1962. This original cover art was given to Stuart and his wife by the artist.

The presale estimate estimate at Heritage was a healthy $8,000 to $12,000 with bidding set to start at $4,000. As of July 13, almost a month before the auction, no bids had yet been placed. 

Constantin Alajálov
Heritage Auctions listing accessed July 13, 2024

https://fineart.ha.com/itm/mainstream-illustration/constantin-alajalov-russian-american-1900-1987-coed-tourists-in-italy-the-saturday-evening-post-cover/a/8174-71016.s?ic16=ViewItem-BrowseTabs-Auction-Preview-MyTrackedLots-101116#

Constantin Alajálov
Heritage Auctions item description

Sold!

Note:  You may recall that this blog has a history of posting original art by Constantin Alajálov. I've found examples in museums and at auction houses, but I also keep hoping to hear from people who are enjoying his original art quietly in their homes. Go check your walls and see.

If you wish to berate me for the logical contradiction inherent in my use, or misuse, of the phrase "the exception that proves the rule," well, I don't want to hear it. Go write your own blog.

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