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WILL
EISNER (1917-2005) • Original cover art to Death &
Taxes (lot of 3) 1975
Even many
ardent Will Eisner fans may not remember the “Gleeful
Guide” series, self-published by his Poorhouse Press in
the mid-70s, shortly after the revival of The Spirit.
Eisner produced half a dozen amusing Gleeful Guides on
topical issues, including How to Avoid Death &
Taxes. Offered here are 3 items: 1.) Original art to the
variant cover; 2. The color proof of Eisner’s
hand-colored version of the final cover; and 3.) the
hard-to-find book itself. At first glance the variant
looks exactly like the final cover, but “Death” in the
variant shows his teeth and has different trash under
his feet, and there are subtle differences with the rich
guy flicking cigar ashes on the frustrated IRS agent.
The color proof also shows different type in the upper
left and upper right, a signature absent on the
published book, and color variations.
Medium/Size/Condition:
The original is drawn with brush and ink on vellum
measuring 8.5 x11 inches, and is taped on white
paper just slightly smaller, and enclosed in protective
9 x 12” Mylar. The corners are clipped on the white
under sheet but it does not affect the original art,
which is immaculate. The proof and the book are also in
excellent condition.
Provenance:
The Will Eisner estate is exclusively represented by the
Denis Kitchen Art Agency, an affiliate of Steve Krupp’s
Curio Shoppe and Gallery. This drawing is warranted to
be an authentic original created by Will Eisner, and
sold on behalf of his estate. Note: Image is © Will
Eisner Studios, Inc. Reproduction for commercial
purposes requires permission.
Further reference: Much
other Eisner art, plus out-of-print graphic novels, Spirit
comic books and magazines,
signed serigraphs,
his Famous
Cartoonist Button, and numerous other Eisner-related
items are accessible from our sister store Steve
Krupp’s Curio Shoppe. Just type his name (or The
Spirit) into our search bar. |
