Description

Barbara Remington (American, 20th Century)

Lord of the Rings, paperback cover study, 1965

Mixed media on three sheets of paper

14 x 25.75 in. (sight)

Signed thrice along lower edge



PROVENANCE:

Collection of Betty Ballantine;

Heritage Auctions, February 2010, lot 87324;

Acquired by the present owner from the above.



This landmark illustration was used for a trio of Ballantine Book covers for J. R. R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings series. The covers were designed so that laid side-by-side they create a panoramic scene. This 1965 edition was the first authorized U. S. paperback edition, and the books were issued in a slipcase, which also featured the same artwork as a wrap-around image. A hugely popular poster titled "Wilderness" has also been produced using this iconic image.



Note: The image of the published work in the online listing is for reference only. The published book is not included with this artwork unless the description specifically states that the lot is accompanied by such.

Condition Report*: Slight paper undulation and craquelure in upper blue sky of left panel and in red pigment along left edge or far right panel. Accretions in central mountain region in left panel. framed under acrylic to an overall size of 32 x 20.5 in

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