LOT #94581 |
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Barry Smith and Rich Buckler (attributed) - Historic Early Conan Concept Illustration Original Art (c. 1969-1970)....
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Sold on Jun 29, 2025 for:
$4,560.00
Bid Source: HA.com/Live bidder
Description
Barry Smith and Rich Buckler (attributed) - Historic Early Conan Concept Illustration Original Art (c. 1969-1970). Barry Windsor-Smith is considered one of comics' elite artists, and Conan the Barbarian was his vehicle to stardom. The piece we are featuring here is a very early conceptual illustration featuring Smith's take on the Cimmerian barbarian, confirmed as a test drawing by Smith's studio assistant, Alex Bialy, and verified to be "one of the very earliest [Conan] drawings" by Roy Thomas, writer of Conan and the man responsible for introducing the pulp magazine hero created by Robert E. Howard to American comics. Thomas also featured this piece in the January 2009 issue of his fanzine, Alter Ego #83, in an article about Marvel's Conan the Barbarian. Smith drew this dynamic image of Conan, with sword in hand and ready for battle, which was likely inked by artist Rich Buckler (his name is handwritten with Smith's name under the figure), after being named as artist on Conan the Barbarian by Thomas, a sample of what fans would see from the up-and-coming penciler -- but what makes this piece even more interesting is the serpent crown concept sketches on the back. Not only do we see a Conan head drawing with the crown on, but we are shown an idea of the intricate winding of the serpent, with notes to Thomas referencing the look of the snake. The crown is even included on Conan's head in the finished illustration. Unfortunately, Thomas and Smith decided on a different headgear for the early issues. It is extremely rare for an early character concept drawing to survive after production, let alone for over 50 years... this is truly a treasured piece of Marvel Comics history! Ink over graphite on 10.75" x 14.25" art paper, double-sided with drawings on the back. Slight toning, whiteout corrections, spot/adhesive staining, with creasing and handling wear. In Very Good condition.More information about Barry Smith. See also: Smith, Barry, Barry Windsor-Smith Artist.
Auction Info
2025 June 26 - 29 Comic & Comic Art Signature® Auction #7418 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
June, 2025
26th-29th
Thursday-Sunday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 31
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 508
Buyer's Premium per Lot:
20% of the successful bid per lot.
Jerry Weist's Comic Art Price Guide 2011
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Want to know more about this artist? Dates, history, background, and value ranges are covered in the comprehensive new guide. Order Now!
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