Between the Covers

Unbound. Six original paintings, each measuring 17" x 25". Gouache on artist boards. Near fine with some toning to the edges of a couple of paintings and tape remnants on the rear of each, but each image is still exceptionally fresh and vivid. The six images depict various animals – squirrel, owl, lion, dog, bear, and rooster – all with military hats and one with a complete uniform (except for pants). Several of the paintings appear to reinforce wartime ideals of conservation (squirrel storing nuts), education (the owl reading), and military service (the lion sitting on a pile of money with the various bills labeled "Security," "Leadership," "Welfare," "Prestige," and so on). The rear of two paintings have the fading stamp of the Simmons-Beal Agency that was located at 3 E. 40th Street in New York City from the 1930-1990s. We could find no specific information on the artist aside from references to several children's books he may have illustrated during the 1950s. That is, until we were contacted by the artist's great niece who revealed Johnson also worked under the pseudonym Jan Pfloog, who is credit with a number children's book, including *The Farm Book*, *Kittens Are Like That*, and *The Puppy Book*. Regardless of his identity, Jonston's artistic skills are quite apparent. An amusing and clever collection of mid-century paintings promoting attractive American virtues in support of the military.

Item #335423