World War I Propaganda (Boston Public Safety Committee, 1915). Recruitment Poster (23.5" X 32.75") "Enlist," Fred Spear Artw...

Description

World War I Propaganda (Boston Public Safety Committee, 1915). Recruitment Poster (23.5" X 32.75") "Enlist," Fred Spear Artwork.
As beautiful as it is tragic, this haunting piece once found its home in the collection of Col. Edward H. McCrahon. World War I collectors should know the name well, as McCrahon accumulated an astounding 3,000 propaganda posters during the 1920s and 1930s. We can definitively claim that it once belonged to McCrahon's famous collection as his initials "E. H. McC" are written on the verso of the poster, although this is no longer visible to the naked eye after linenbacking. By far his most famous work, Fred Spear's ghostly illustration invokes one of the greatest tragedies of World War I: the sinking of the RMS Lusitania. In an unprecedented attack, nearly 1,200 passengers met their end in the frigid waters of the Atlantic after a German U-boat caught the civilian ocean liner in its sights. 128 of those unfortunate travelers were American, and the sinking became a rallying cry for the U.S. to officially enter into the European conflict. The ethereal effect of Spear's image is just as impactful as it was in 1915, with touchup only applied at the poster's folds. It has suffered no wear in the interior, however, its borders were once trimmed, a common practice of early poster collectors. They have been replaced with impressive skill, done so neatly that it is almost impossible to differentiate where the paper ends and restoration begins. Fine+ on Linen.

Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.