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Steve Ditko - Original Art for Amazing Spider-Man #10, Complete 22 page story (Marvel, 1964). In 1962, Stan Lee created a new vision for a super-hero, never tried before, called Spider-Man. For the first time in comic book history a heroic character would be so infused with the real problems and neuroses of an angst-ridden teenager that the readership began to relate to the character as if the fictional events were actually happening to them. Jack Kirby, Marvel's ace, turned in a few initial pages that Lee deemed, "too heroic." He then handed the book to Steve Ditko who injected a simpler everyman quality into the book's imagery. The end result was a smash. A comics revolution was born with reverberations still being felt today, forty years later, as the Spider-Man film that recently opened broke every box office record in the book. This awe-inspiring, 22 page story, is one of the earliest complete Spider-Man stories ever brought to auction. The page one splash alone is enough to get your spider-senses tingling: a huge classic image of Spider-Man, apparently defeated, against the might of the evil Enforcers. Ditko's line and brush work are just breathtaking. Every page displays the excitement of a master craftsman, at the zenith of his abilities, clearly cranking on all cylinders with a heap of enthusiasm for his work. This story, written and conceived by Stan Lee at the very peak of his powers, has everything you could possibly want in a Spider-Man epic. We heard this was one of Stan "The Man" Lee's favorite stories, so we emailed him and got the following quote: "Why is issue #10 one of my all time favorites? I was hoping you'd ask. First of all, it's one of the greatest examples of Steve Ditko's inimitable art, showing why he's the legend he is. Next, the human interest. Picture Aunt Many at death's door while Peter is involved in one of comicdom's most dramatic love tangles. Then there's the unforgettable sequence in which J. Jonah Jameson finally lets us kno
Auction 803 | Lot: 5859 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $161,000.00
Carl Barks - "Flying Dutchman" (circa 1972). Born in Merrill, Oregon in 1901, Carl Barks joined Walt Disney Productions in 1935. In 1942 he began working on a character that would make him a giant in comic fandom: Donald Duck. His styling of Donald and storytelling abilities have earned him the reputation as the greatest of all the "funny animal" creators. Many would go further and rank him as the best storyteller in comic book history. He is also considered the father of the miserly Scrooge McDuck, and credited with giving personalities to the mischievous nephew triad of Huey, Dewey and Louie. In 1968 Barks began a series of oil paintings that gave a new artistic breadth to the residents of Duckburg. Rendered for the first time in rich hues, collectors clamored for the paintings of Donald, Uncle Scrooge and the rest of the duck clan. Barks painting have sold repeatedly in the six-figure range. It has been quite a while since one has been available at public auction. We are pleased to offer this superb painting in which the ducks confront the legendary lost galleon. 18" x24", oil on masonite, excellent condition.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6224 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $80,500.00
Frank Frazetta - Original Oil Painting "Carson of Venus" (Ace Books, 1973). This fantastic oil by Frank Frazetta, published in 1973 by Ace Books, should not be confused with the earlier Ace Book version from 1963. The later painting is a larger, more mature work. For many years, this oil graced the wall of Frazetta's dining room. Frazetta comments on this oil: "The first version was too busy and a little stiff. I had a lot of detail in there that was unnecessary. When I got the chance to paint it again, I corrected the whole design. I took a lot out. The second version is far superior artistically." What makes this oil outstanding is the wonderful rhythm of the waves and the seamless integration of the demonic fish rising out of the sea with the lurching boat. The heaving seas have a tremendous weight and presence in this composition. We can feel the awesome danger in its rough waves. The monster fish and Carson's sailing vessel define an oval space in the center of the composition that forces the eye to rhythmically rise and swirl. The demon fish is unearthly, strange, and imperious. It is a black creature framed by a black sky and rising from a black sea; it is death itself. Carson's vessel is plunging down into the scene, drawn to the majestic and terrifying creature. A hero's destiny awaits! These elements supercharge the design with a life and vitality that is so distinctively a trademark of Frazetta. Frazetta succeeds in capturing the eye with this powerful scene of dark drama - a single moment of life-and-death confrontation and rich suggestiveness. Narrative possibilities spring to mind. The viewer is immediately tantalized by a rich mix of storytelling ideas and imaginative concepts. Frazetta's best creations are always multi-layered and work on us in many ways. The mind reinforces our ongoing delight by lingering on the wonderful use of color. The entire composition is dominated by its atmosphere and mood. A black night provides Frazetta with an eerie light to showcase the w
Auction 803 | Lot: 6234 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $74,750.00
Jack Kirby, Don Heck, Bob Forgione, Steve Ditko - Original Art for Tales To Astonish #27, Complete Book (Marvel, 1961). It is rare that Silver Age anthology books remain intact, and so Heritage Comics is proud to offer the complete contents of Tales to Astonish #27, a classic Silver Age key in its entirety. Included are: "The Man In The Ant Hill" (7 Pages) - Jack Kirby and Dick Ayers. There is nothing more exciting to a collector than the first appearance of a major character. Scientist Henry Pym discovers a rare formula able to reduce him to the size of an ant. After drinking his concoction, he shrinks, stumbles into an ant hill and, after befriending the insects, learns to communicate and control them. A few months later, Pym would transform himself into the classic Marvel super-hero, Ant Man. This story is where it all began. Other than this incredible book, only one first appearance of a major super-hero story has ever been offered at auction. Jack Kirby, one of the co-architects of the Marvel Universe, handles the art chores. The story is clean and dramatic in classic Kirby style. "Dead Planet" (5 pages) - Steve Ditko. Elegant line and brush work from the creator of Spider-Man and Dr. Strange. The story is a fun sci-fi piece about a race of space conquerors who are defeated by loneliness and boredom. "Mirror Mirror On The Wall" (6 pages) - Don Heck. This story contains some of Heck's best work. This domestic horror tale points out the danger of getting your wife a haunted mirror for her birthday. "The Talking Horse" (5 pages) - Bob Forgione. Cute story involving a talking horse who convinces his jockey he will win the big race. The jockey, believing the filly, bets the farm on his horse to win. Losing the race, the horse explains that he was mistaken just as the jockey's creditors arrive. All pages measure 12.5" x 18.5", twice-up art, pen and ink on board. The complete book is in excellent condition.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5990 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $65,090.00
John Romita, Sr. - Original Cover Art for Spectacular Spider-Man #2 (Marvel, 1968). One of the most recognized and beloved covers of the Silver Age, this stunning piece of art was long thought to have been destroyed in a house fire years ago. Discovered recently in a private collection, this beautifully rendered painting visually sums up the classic enmity between the Green Goblin and Spider-Man. Romita Spider-Man covers, highly prized by collectors, command top prices in the original art market, and one would be hard-pressed to find a better example of this modern master's work. Measuring 13" x 17.5", this piece is in beautiful condition and will certainly be the centerpiece of even the most distinguished collection.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5886 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $63,250.00
Robert Crumb - Original Art Complete Story (1989). Offered here is a rare bird indeed. This is a complete, ten page Mr. Natural story by Robert Crumb. Artwork by Robert Crumb does not enter the marketplace very often, and when it does, it is instantly snapped up into a permanent collection. The supply will never come close to the demand for this Underground genius. It also stars two of Crumb's most recognizable characters, Devil Girl and Flakey Foont. Flakey Foont tells Mr. Natural that he is obsessed with Cheryl Borck, a.k.a. Devil Girl, and wants to go find her. Of course, the Devil Girl is already there, and is madly in love with Mr. Natural. This story is full of all of the classic Crumb images, the type that could only come from his mind, and could only be published in Underground comix. When seen up close, it is apparent exactly how much time that he puts into every single panel. The art conveys all of the character's emotions in a way that no other artist has ever been able to duplicate. All of the artwork is in perfect condition, with no staining, pinholes or tears. Mr. Crumb has used some white-out on every page. These pages measure 14" x 17" each.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6114 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $45,137.50
Jack Burnley and Charles Paris - Original Comic Strip Art for Batman Sunday dated 2-10-46 (McClure Newspaper Syndicate, 1946). The "grotesque bird of ill omen," the perfidious Penguin is at it again, in this ultra-rare Batman Sunday strip signed by the Dark Knight Detective's creator, Bob Kane (although the actual art was done by Kane Studio members Jack Burnley and Charles Paris). Batman strip art comes to market very rarely, with Sundays being virtually nonexistent. This is an exceptional piece, with great shots of Batman, Robin and the Penguin. In excellent condition, the piece measures approximately 20.25" x 26.5", with slight use of white-out. The Bat-logo in the first panel is a stat, but the rest is all original art. Dailies of this vintage have commanded five-figure prices at auction in the past; to our knowledge, a Batman Sunday has never been offered.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5783 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $42,550.00
John Romita Sr. - Original Cover Art to The Amazing Spider-Man #69 (Marvel, 1968). A truly spectacular cover from the classic John Romita, Sr. run on ASM. This is one of the most indelible images of the late '60s, as Spidey seems all but defeated in the vice-grip of his "biggest" foe, The Kingpin. From the brilliant composition (the low angle emphasizes both Spidey's relative helplessness and the Kingpin's enormous bulk) to the satin-smooth inks, this cover showcases Romita at the height of his abilities. Silver Age Spider-Man covers are in high demand, and this is one of the best. Excellent condition, with a small (1/2") tear in the left margin, and light glue stains around the "Crush the Kingpin!" stat. 11 1/2" x 17 1/2".
Auction 803 | Lot: 5882 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $41,400.00
Johnny Craig - Original Cover Art for the Crypt of Terror #17 (EC, 1950). This is one of the most historic pieces of art offered in this sale. It is arguably the first horror cover produced by EC. The last two issues of War Against Crime and Crime Patrol are certainly EC horror books, but Gaines still hedged his bet. They remained crime comics, if only in title. But with Crypt of Terror #17 and Vault of Horror #12, Gaines took the plunge. He committed to publishing a line of horror-themed comics, and comic book history took a dramatic turn. EC's graphically violent covers and stories sold very well. Of course this bred myriad imitators, all trying to out-do one another in the bad taste category. Ultimately, psychologists, social reformers and Senate hearings put a stake in the heart of Bill Gaines' horror-based empire. This cover is one of Craig's finer efforts. The detail is exquisite, particularly the alley cat foraging for it's dinner. The art is in exceptional condition measuring 13.5" x 19". All of the type, including the logo, is hand drawn. Significant and masterfully executed, this piece is a must for the serious EC collector.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6182 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $37,950.00
Dick Sprang and Charles Paris - Original Art for Batman #56 Complete 13-Page Story "The Riddle of the Seven Birds" (DC, 1949). The second story from Batman #56 is this gadget-laden Penguin tale in which the Felonious Fowl is stealing birds that spell out his name. This fast-moving tale has many wonderful moments, including Pengy escaping the Dynamic Duo on a one-man Pegnuin-copter. As an added bonus, the last page of the story features two panels that did not appear in the published version of the comic, a short coda in which the jail warden browbeats the Penguin, and the Caped Crusaders add another trophy to their collection; these two panels (perhaps deemed extraneous by the editor) were pasted-over with a Nestle's Crunch ad, and, to our knowledge, have never been published. As a result of the paste-up, they are slightly yellowed from the glue. The Penguin has always been a favored villain in the Batman Rogue's Gallery, and this is a rare opportunity to own the original art to a complete and classic story, beautifully-rendered by the legendary Dick Sprang, and ably embellished by Charles Paris. The first page is signed by Sprang, Paris, and actor Burt Ward (who played Robin in the Batman TV series); Sprang also signed pages 8-11, and Paris signed pages 2, 6, 8, and 10. Excellent condition overall, there are some glue stains on the stats on page one, and light tanning at the edges of most pages. This lot also comes with a low-grade copy of Batman #56. Each page measures 15" x 22".
Auction 803 | Lot: 6087 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $34,500.00
Frank Frazetta - Original Art for the Back Cover of Mad Magazine (EC, circa 1970). Most of us know Frazetta as the master of fantasy art, or his facility when rendering the female form. However, his talent as a cartoonist is often forgotten. This piece titled "Early One Morning in the Jungle" was used for a back cover of Mad Magazine. The art consists of four panels rendered on one board, each panel measures 4.75" x 14".
Auction 803 | Lot: 6191 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $27,600.00
Frank Frazetta - Original Oil Painting "Winter of the Coup" (1973). Originally created as a promotion for the Western Writers of America Book Club, Frazetta's impeccable sense of design imbues this piece with a power and an immediacy that is undeniable. Two warriors from two different cultures are locked in a life-and-death struggle that only one will survive. The muted tones that Frazetta has chosen for this painting give the scene a sense of heightened realism that increases the dramatic tension of the work. By almost totally eliminating any type of background, Frazetta forces the eye to focus on the two figures, increasing the sense of impending doom to an even greater degree. Beautifully rendered by the hand of a master, the piece measures 14" x 16" on board, and is in excellent condition. Signed at upper right.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6235 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $26,450.00
Hal Foster - Original Comic Strip Art for Prince Valiant Sunday dated 12-17-44 (King Features Syndicate, 1944). In the words of Hal Foster, "Aleta, fair young Queen of the Misty Isles, is about to choose a husband from among the brilliant crowd of suitors. Then the curtains are flung aside and Prince Valiant enters, madness in his eyes and a naked sword in his hand. He strides toward the throne, his eyes fixed upon her face. For a brief moment he hesitates. Then closing his eyes tightly that her beauty might not hold him, he grasps her by the hair, flings her over his shoulder and strides out into the storm." Thus does Val lay claim to his bride. And you can see that Aleta is not struggling to escape, nor is she displeased with Val's rash action! This is surely one of the most significant pages in the saga of Prince Valiant, and one of the most beautifully drawn. The art, in excellent unrestored condition, measures approximately 29" x 23" for the Prince Valiant portion, with an additional tier titled "The Medieval Castle" (which is separate from the Valiant piece) measuring approximately 29" x 11.5". This is a beautiful example of Foster at his best.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5816 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $20,700.00
Arthur Peddy and Bernard Sachs - Original Cover Art for All Star Comics #54 (DC, 1950). Although scarcely a household name, Arthur Peddy was a solid journeyman artist who had a seventeen-issue run on the legendary All Star Comics, including penciling eleven of its last twelve covers. Offered here is a rare All Star cover, beautifully rendered by Peddy and inker Bernard Sachs. In keeping with the DC vogue of the day, the cover is more whimsical than action-packed, with the fabled Justice Society taking part in a circus parade as a gleeful crowd of onlookers cheer their heroes. The detail in this piece is simply amazing, with every face in the crowd clearly delineated, as are the frills and bangles of the circus accoutrements. Golden Age covers are a true rarity, and are highly prized by original art collectors; fewer than ten All Stars covers probably still exist, most from this same era of the later '40s/early '50s. This piece is in exceptional condition; although all the paste-ups are replacement stats (the lettering to the right of the logo, which begins "An exciting mystery-adventure..." is all original, however, lettered on the board), the art is in immaculate condition, with very little white-out and virtually no tanning. There is a light crease in the lower right corner, but this has almost no affect on the presentation. Given the scarcity of Golden Age superhero covers, not to mention a piece as detailed and beautiful as this one, this is a rare prize that would be the centerpiece of any art collection. 12 1/2" x 18"
Auction 803 | Lot: 6076 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $20,125.00

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Neal Adams - Original Cover Art for Justice League of America #66 (DC, 1968). This is one of Adams' earlier covers for DC, and one of his best, too. This dynamic composition features all of the major characters: Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Green Arrow, and the Atom. Before Adams, DC was often criticized for having very static covers. The figures were posed and wooden. Adams changed all that with his dramatic compositions and fluid figures. This piece is certainly one of the best Neal Adams covers ever offered for public sale. Condition is very good; all the figures are original, and white-out is used sparingly. Only the word balloons are pasted-up. The art is executed on standard comic paper and has been rubber cemented to another sheet of cover stock. A few smaller stats are missing. Image area measures 10" x 15", and is signed by Neal Adams in the margin.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6037 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $18,400.00
Carmine Infantino and Murphy Anderson - Original Cover Art for Justice League of America #55 (DC, 1966). A spectacular piece of comic book history, this cover is desirable on a multitude of levels. The Infantino/Anderson pairing, which turned out some of the highest quality covers of the Silver Age, produced this twice-up piece from DC's "go-go check" period, the highpoint of their teamwork. From a highly desirable title, it has a strong Batman tie-in and an appealing "Earth II" theme, featuring Golden Age characters from the Justice Society of America. The annual JLA/JSA team-ups were a summer tradition that many of us remember fondly. Due at least in part to the nostalgia factor, Earth II comics and art have always been in high demand. With an image area of approximately 12.5" x 18.5", original stats, and no white-out or paste-overs, this cover spotlights Wonder Woman, Mr. Terrific, and Hour-Man. There is an area approximately 10" x 2", on the left hand side, that shows warping from water damage. It is not, however, stained and there does not appear to be any restoration work, or any damage to the inking.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6058 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $17,825.00
Jack Kirby - Original Art for The Forever People #10, - Complete 22-page story "The Scavengers" (DC, 1972). From the Firepits of Apokolips to the glittering spires of New Genesis, Jack Kirby's incredible Fourth World epic burst fully-formed on an unsuspecting world in 1970, when Kirby moved to DC after years at rival Marvel. First appearing in Superman's Pal, Jimmy Olsen, the Fourth World storyline soon spawned three brand-new titles: The New Gods, Mister Miracle, and The Forever People, from which this particular story comes. The "younger generation" of New Genesis, the Forever People travelled Earth in their Whiz Wagon battling the evil minions of Darkseid. This story, the next-to-last issue of this key title and one of the best of the run, features Deadman, and even has a last panel advertisement for Kirby's new book, the Demon (the ad is actual art, not a paste-up). The Fourth World books are fondly remembered by many, and original art from these books is hotly sought and collected. Most of the books have been broken up over the years, making complete stories extremely rare. This particular book was systematically reunited from separate pages by an extremely dedicated collector. Kirby was, arguably, the greatest genius the comics industry has ever seen, making this a rare opportunity to acquire a complete example of his exquisite vision.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6062 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $13,800.00
Al Williamson - Original Art for Weird Fantasy #15, Complete 7-Page Story, "By George" (EC, 1952). Charming story involving a naughty teen-age lizard who takes daddy's spaceship for a joyride, gets lost in space, and accidentally lands on Earth in the distant past. St. George defeats this apparently dangerous teen lizard and creates his famous dragon slaying legend. The lizard, as it turns out, is only trying to find help to get himself home. The artwork is tour de force Williamson in his prime. Hyper-detailed pen and inks with subtle wash tones make this exceptional story a joy to behold. The story is in very good condition. The splash has a paste-up which is all original art, and a few panels throughout the story have also been pasted in. Size measures 13" x 18", pen and ink with wash on art board.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6209 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $12,650.00
Harry G. Peter - Original Cover Art for Unpublished Wonder Woman (DC, 1949). Artist H.G. Peter illustrated the Wonder Woman feature from her very beginning in 1941, until his death in 1958. Peter's art is extremely rare in the marketplace. This is one of only three covers by him that still exist, and this one was never published. Not only is this a classic example of "good girl"" art but it's a wonderfully comic illustration as well. Condition is excellent for a piece of this vintage. The image area measures 18" x 13", pen and ink, mounted on board.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6077 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $12,075.00
Charles M. Schulz - Original Comic Strip Art for Peanuts daily dated 7-27-54 (United Features Syndicate, 1954). An early example of this most beloved of American comic strips. Since its debut in 1950, Peanuts has become a cultural phenomenon, spawning a vast sea of comics, toys, television specials, memorabilia and more. Only a handful of originals from this early in the strips run have ever been offered for public sale, making this an exceptional opportunity for any Schulz fan. Displaying the bold, confident line that marked Schulz's early work, this rare piece spotlights Charlie Brown and Snoopy in every panel. Measuring approximately 7" x 28.75", this strip is in excellent condition and has been inscribed, "For Christine - Charles M. Schulz" along the bottom. A true piece of Americana, sure to be the centerpiece of any comic strip collection.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5810 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $11,500.00
Jack Kirby - Original Art for Fantastic Four #14, page 1 (Marvel, 1963). A fantastic splash page for one of the most popular early FF stories, which features the Sub-Mariner and the Puppet Master. The splash depicts the Fantastic Four returning home from the Moon after having defeated the Red Ghost. Strong inks by Dick Ayers. The art measures 12.5" x 18.5", and has fully hand drawn lettering. Art is in excellent condition, with paste-overs (word balloons) and white-out in the bottom left panel.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5967 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $10,350.00
Al Feldstein - Original Art for The Crypt Of Terror #17, Complete 8-page story, "Death Must Come." (EC, 1950). Feldstein kicked off this new direction in the EC line with a spiffy horror tale about the search for eternal youth. Feldstein is at the top of his game and his rich inking style really shines here. Collectors of EC art often covet the new direction stories. Here is a great opportunity to own a very early one. The art measures 13" x 18", twice-up, pen and ink on board. The story is in excellent condition.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6187 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $10,062.50
Ken Kelly - Original Oil Painting "The Ice Mammoth Cometh" (1991). Considered by many to be one of Kelly's finest works, this is truly a "mammoth" painting. Depicting a group of prehistoric hunters as they desperately attempt to kill an enraged wooly mammoth, Kelly says, "This painting, particularly the mammoth, required lots of research. I wanted to show the terror and courage of these early men being caught outside their den by this exaggeratedly large, monstrous animal." The precision of the artist's brushstrokes and his attention to exacting detail make the animal's hide and fur appear real to the touch. The power of the awesome, dangerous beast is evident as he picks up his attackers and flings them around like toys. The deep, rich colors of the mammoth contrast with the icy crags, which glow against the stormy blue-greys of the threatening sky. Oil on board, this monster of a piece measures a massive 52" x 37" and is signed by the artist in the lower left corner.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6254 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $9,775.00
Charles Schulz - Original Comic Strip Art for Peanuts Sunday dated 2-6-77 (United Features Syndicate, 1977). It is doubtful anyone receiving this catalog is unaware of "Good ol' Charlie Brown". We are very pleased to be offering an original Peanuts Sunday by Schulz. Since "Sparky's" untimely passing, his work has been largely unavailable and hotly desired by collector's worldwide. While always prized, Peanuts Sunday pages have hit a new level of value. This lot includes a (partial) printed version of the strip and an autographed, color photo of Schulz at work. Artwork measures 15" x 22.5".
Auction 803 | Lot: 5811 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $9,487.50
E. C. Segar - Original Comic Strip Art for Thimble Theater dated 9-21-30 (King Features Syndicate, 1930). "Born" on January 17, 1929, Popeye quickly became the star of the Segar's long-running syndicated feature, Thimble Theater. A scant two years after his debut on the printed page, Popeye made the transition to the animated feature, eventually eclipsing even Mickey Mouse in popularity, a popularity that continues unabated to this very day. The Sunday page offered here is from very early in Popeye's life, before he developed his more-familiar look. Measuring 21" x 19.5", this Sunday page is in exquisite shape. Some experts estimate that fewer than 50 Segar Sunday pages currently exist, so this is an opportunity that may never pass this way again.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5854 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $9,487.50
Gill Fox - Original Cover Art to Torchy #3 (Quality, 1950). Gill Fox did five Torchy covers, and every single one of them is a gem, so it is with great pride that we offer the extremely alluring cover artwork to issue #3, as Torchy inadvertently sends a couple down the road to divorce even as they depart for their honeymoon. Who could blame the hapless bridegroom for being dumbstruck by one of the sexiest women ever to grace a comic book cover? Not us! Beyond the amusing gag portrayed here, the actual rendering is absolutely stunning, with the intricate details of Torchy's dress, and the sultry pout of her mouth expertly fashioned by Fox, one of the top good-girl artists ever to put pen to paper. Needless to say, Torchy covers are extremely rare; only one other is definitely known to exist, and to our knowledge, none have ever been offered at public auction, making this a rare opportunity to acquire a classic and sexy piece of original art. Cover is in exceptional condition, retaining all the original stats, with the only white-out being in the "Just Married" sign on the trunk of the car. 15" x 19" on thick illustration board.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6125 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $9,487.50
Harvey Kurtzman - Original Art for Weird Fantasy #14, Complete 7-Page Story, "Trip Into The Unknown" (EC, 1950). Early, new trend, post-apocalyptic tale of space explorers that investigate a planet in ruins now populated by savage giants. At the conclusion, we discover that they've landed in Times Square and that the ravaged planet is indeed Earth. Kurtzman's simple clean story telling is excellent and the pages are in very nice condition. Size measures 13" x 18", pen and ink on art board.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6197 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $9,200.00
Floyd Gottfredson - Original Comic Strip Art for Mickey Mouse Sunday 3-21-1937 (Walt Disney Studios, 1937). Without a doubt, Mickey is one the most important American comic characters ever created. He's been our ambassador abroad since the 1930s and launched an entertainment empire. Unfortunately for collectors, the Disney Company has been very protective of its artwork through the years, meaning that very little vintage Disney art will ever be made available to the public. The artwork offered here is by Floyd Gottfredson, who was responsible for defining the classic style of Mickey Mouse that we know today. The art is in impeccable condition and measures 17.5" x 27".
Auction 803 | Lot: 5807 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $8,912.50
Gil Kane and Frank Giacoia - Original Cover Art for Amazing Spider-Man #131 (Marvel, 1974). Back in the early seventies, just when it seemed like Spidey's life couldn't get worse, it did. Still reeling from the death of his girlfriend Gwen Stacy a year earlier, Spider-Man has to suffer the indignity of his Aunt May's unholy marriage to his arch nemesis, Doc Ock. This exciting and dramatic cover represents a classic example of the problem-ridden hero that has made Spider-Man so enduringly popular. Gil Kane covers are highly sought after and Spider-Man examples rarely come up for auction. Kane, along with Ditko and Romita, is considered to be a definitive Spider-Man artist. The cover is in good condition with some white-out on Spider-Man's leg and around his figure, used mostly for effect. Aunt May is a stat and her facial expression has been slightly re-worked. The stat conceals a fully rendered Aunt May with a slightly different facial expression. A stat is also missing from the prayer book in the lower right corner. The image area measures 10" x 15", pen and ink on board.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5866 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $8,625.00
Dave Cockrum - Original Cover Art for Uncanny X-Men #158 (Marvel, 1982). Dave Cockrum, the original artist of the re-boot to the all new, all different, X-Men came back to the book in the early eighties for another stellar run. This cover is significant for introducing Rogue to the X-Men for the first time. Rogue has gone on to be one of the more popular X-Men. Also nice is a huge image of the most popular X-Man, Wolverine, taking one on the chin. X-Men covers like this are highly coveted and rarely come up for sale. Size is 11" x 17", pen and ink on board. The condition of the artwork is excellent.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5935 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $8,625.00
Don Heck - Original Art for Tales of Suspense #42 "Trapped by the Red Barbarian" - Complete 13-Page Story (Marvel, 1963). Stan Lee, in true Cold War fashion, takes his battle with the Commies into the 1960s in this historic fourth appearance of Iron-Man. Sporting his original gold armor, Iron-Man, comes face to face with the Red Barbarian. Heck art is undervalued in the marketplace. This is a rare opportunity to pick up a fabulous early story from the beginnings of the Marvel Universe. The image area measures 13" x 18.5", twice-up art, pen and ink on art board. The artwork is in excellent condition.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5947 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $8,625.00
Frank Frazetta - Original Art for The Durango Kid #15 - Complete 6-page Dan Brand and Tipi story (Magazine Enterprises, 1952). From a fairly early point in his professional career, many Frazetta scholars see this run of "Dan Brand" stories (that ran for 16 issues beginning in the late 1940s) as a pivotal point in his career. One can trace Frazetta's development as an artist very clearly through this run, with late examples such as this exhibiting the power and strong graphic sense that would propel Frazetta to super-stardom a mere decade later. Both pencilled and inked by Frazetta, the end result is a masterpiece of graphic storytelling. With powerful composition and lush, yet delicate inks, Frazetta's work in this piece sets him apart from the vast majority of comic artists working in the field at the time. As is often the case, the published work, with its inherent limitations regarding reproduction and printing, pales beside the originals. Once seen, it becomes even more obvious why Frazetta is revered among professionals and fans alike. In excellent condition, the pages measure approximately 21" x 13.5".
Auction 803 | Lot: 6126 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $8,625.00
Al Williamson - Original Art Cover to Valor Comics #2 (EC1955). EC master artist Al Williamson renders an awesome Gladiator cover to EC's New Direction comic Valor #2. Note the incredible detail Williamson put into the apparently victorious gladiator's shield and belt. Also notice the ornate Eagle behind Cesar and the lion heads on the columns. EC artwork is prized and this piece will be a treasured addition to any collection. The Valor logo stat has some discoloration due to the deterioration of the glue, while the stat of the knight and New Direction logo is crisp and white. The page has some light overall yellowing. As an added bonus, there are some preliminary Williamson pencils and inks on the back side Including a nice portrait of a hero and the hero and a girl looking into a cave. The cover art measures approximately 13.5 inches by 19.5 inches.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6208 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $8,625.00
Al Feldstein - Weird Fantasy #8 - Revisited (1993). Al Feldstein was a prime mover in the success of EC. Feldstein was a primary writer, editor and artist for EC. As an artist, he is best known as a specialist in the "headlight" cover. Weird Fantasy #8 has always been a fan favorite for this reason. In the early nineties several of the EC artist did paintings on a commissioned basis. This is one of the better efforts. The art is in exceptional condition and measures 19" x 23".
Auction 803 | Lot: 6190 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $8,050.00
Dick Sprang - Original Cover Art for Batman: The Sunday Classics 1943-1946 (DC, 1991). An absolutely superb piece of artwork by Golden Age great Dick Sprang, this cover for a book reprinting the Batman Sunday strips was obviously a labor of love for the legendary artist. Although completed in the early '90s, this has to rival any of the classic covers he drew during the Darknight Detective's formative years. A quintessential rooftop image of the Caped Crusader and the Boy Wonder squaring off against the heavyweights in their rogues gallery: Two-Face, The Joker, Catwoman and The Penguin. All of the characters are depicted with the vintage look of the late WWII period, all rendered by the master Batman artist of that era. The art is in perfect condition and is huge, measuring 20" x 30". An amazing display piece that would beautifully grace the collection of any Batman fan.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6090 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $7,647.50
Mike Ploog - Title Splash Page for Werewolf By Night #1 (Marvel, 1972). When the Comics Code eased its restrictions in the early '70s, Marvel responded by launching a passel of horror-related comics that had previously been forbidden. One of the most popular involved the adventures of Jack Russell, a young man who had an unhappy encounter with a lycanthrope, and became the Werewolf By Night. One of the key ingredients to the success of the series was the outstanding artwork by a young talent named Mike Ploog; a protege of Will Eisner, Ploog had a full-blooded style that was both finely-tuned and aggressive, making Werewolf truly exciting and memorable. Offered here is the dynamic title splash to the first issue of WBN (although, as was common in '70s Marvel comics, issue #1 begins smack in the middle of a story arc, in this case begun in Marvel Spotlight #2-4) which depicts the Werewolf transmuted into a pillar of stone. Boldly inked by Ploog, this image is indelible to anyone who followed the series in the early '70s. Ploog art is highly valued, in part because of its scarcity, given his relatively short tenure in the field before giving up sequential art for work in Hollywood. This piece is in excellent condition overall, displaying some telltale brown staining (common on much Silver and Bronze Age Marvel art) on the left side.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6008 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $7,187.50
Frank Frazetta - Original Comic Strip Art for Johnny Comet dated 2-25-52 (McNaught Syndicate, 1952). On Monday, January 28, 1952, a new star exploded in the comic strip firmament. Johnny Comet, written by Peter DePaolo, winner of the 1925 Indy 500 (although some have attributed the scripting to Earl Baldwin), and drawn by the up-and-coming Frank Frazetta, was a high-octane adventure strip about a young race car driver (looking suspiciously like Frank himself) and a plethora of beautiful women (already a Frazetta trademark). This particular strip, from early in the run, introduces the lovely Jean Fargo, Johnny's glamorous girlfriend, and exhibits the lush inking and powerful figures that typify the early days of the feature. Running a scant 18 months, Johnny Comet strips are prized by collectors as examples of the nascent Frazetta at his finest. Soon after the end of this strip, Frazetta would go on to work for Al Capp on L'il Abner, a period of which Frank has less than fond memories. Attractively matted, the art has an image area of approximately 21.5" X 6.25" and is in excellent condition.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5800 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $6,037.50
John Buscema - Original Cover Painting for Savage Sword of Conan #40 (Marvel, 1978). Marvel maestro, John Buscema renders this amazing painting that was used as the cover for Savage Sword of Conan #40. Conan is in a most perilous position as he prepares to ward off a nasty-looking rock/frog creature at the precipice of a cliff. Conan must protect the buxom brunette from this fiend or perish trying. The detail is exquisite and draws the reader into the painting. Note the detail in the creature, the tree behind Conan, and in the damsel's tattered clothing coyly revealing her ample cleavage. The piece is in excellent condition, with an image area measuring approximately 17" x 22.5".
Auction 803 | Lot: 5925 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $6,037.50
Joe Shuster - Original Superman Drawing for Action Comics #544 (DC, 1983). Created especially for the 45th Anniversary issue of Action Comics, this may very well be the last Superman drawing produced by Joe Shuster, co-creator of the Man of Steel. By the time this drawing was produced, Shuster was suffering from encroaching blindness and other ailments and, in fact, said in a special note that accompanied this drawing, "Since this may be the last Superman drawing I will ever make, due to the condition of my eyes, I have decided to keep the original. It has a very special and sentimental meaning for me." Despite the problems plaguing Shuster, the piece of art he produced which obviously meant so much to him, is full of the dynamic power and presence that marked his style from the very beginning. Rendered in the delicate pen and ink style that was Shuster's trademark, on a 13.5" x 17" board, the image area is approximately 11" x 12", and is clean and crisp. In very good condition, there is a slight line (approximately 2.25" in length) that comes in from the left side of the board, but does not affect the figure in any way. Arguably the most important creation in comic book history, this is a loving tribute to a classic character from one of his creators. A finer example of Shuster's Superman would be hard to imagine.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6085 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $6,037.50
Joe Simon and Jack Kirby - Original Cover Art for Black Magic (Prize, circa 1952). Simon and Kirby's artwork for Prize is among their finest. It is more detailed than their 1940s work and more "finished" as well. Examples from this period are very scarce. This piece is a precursor of the Marvel Monster (pre-hero) books that Jack became famous for. The image area measures 12.5" x 17.5". The piece is in excellent condition with minimal white-out, and no paste-overs or stats. The logo is most likely a replacement, but is very well done.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6153 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $6,037.50

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Graham Ingels - Original Art for Terror Illustrated #1, "The Basket" Complete 12-Page Story. The indisputable king of horror, artist Graham Ingels, draws this 12-page story for the post-code magazine-sized picto-fiction magazine Terror Illustrated about a two-headed man. The artwork is dark and moody in classic Ingels fashion and measures approximately 17" x 23". Overall the condition of the pages is excellent even though the word balloon areas are blank.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6193 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $6,037.50
Burne Hogarth - Original Comic Strip Art for Tarzan dated 6-24-45 (United Features Syndicate, 1945). Burne Hogarth's long tenure on the Tarzan Sunday page was marked by many highs and lows. This page from 1945, shortly before he left the strip to create his own strip, Drago, shows him at his strongest. In this very atmospheric, action-filled page, Tarzan battles a prehistoric monster. Some Hogarth originals show the work of some of his assistants, but this page is pure Hogarth. Measuring approximately 21" x 28", the art is in immaculate condition. The logo at the top is a stat, but the rest is pure Hogarth.
Auction 803 | Lot: 5851 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $5,750.00
Herb Trimpe - Original Cover Art for The Incredible Hulk #165 (Marvel, 1973). With #106, Herb Trimpe became the regular artist on Hulk, creating his own indelible image of Greenskin for nearly 100 issues. This cover features our hero locked in heated battle with Aquon, the murderous Man-Fish! The art measures 17.5" x 11.5", and is very clean with little white-out.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6030 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $5,520.00
Carmine Infantino - Original Cover Art Recreation for Showcase #4 (1990s). Beautiful watercolor recreation of this classic cover by the original artist. Many consider Showcase #4 to be the first Silver Age comic. Original Infantino Flash covers rarely surface. When one is offered, they typically sell for over $20,000. The art measures 13" x 19". Condition is flawless. Professionally matted and framed.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6059 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $5,520.00
Unknown Artist - Original Cover Art for Big Little Book, "Gene Autry and the Mystery of Paint Rock Canyon" (Whitman Publishing, circa 1940). Big Little Book cover art is rarely offered for sale. It is hard to image one more beautiful than this one too. The condition is perfect, it appears to have been painted yesterday. 15.5" x 15.5".
Auction 803 | Lot: 6175 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $5,520.00
Johnny Craig - Crypt of Terror #17 Cover Recreation (1990s). The venerable Johnny Craig has created a finely crafted, painted version of this seminal EC cover. Of course, Craig was the artist for the 1950 version as well. All the terror of the startled woman is recaptured with brush and palette. The omnipresent EC irony is at play too. The alley cat is not what she has to fear at all. 17.5" x 24", excellent condition.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6183 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $5,520.00
John Totleben - Original Cover Art for Swamp Thing #98 (DC, 1990). The modern successor to such masters of the bizarre as Hieronymus Bosch and Salvador Dali, John Totleben exhibits a twisted imagination and a warped eye that produces some of the most powerful and disturbing images ever displayed in comics. Along with penciler Steve Bissette and writer Alan Moore, Totleben was responsible for revitalizing and reinterpreting the Swamp Thing beginning in 1984. Presented here is a powerful painting, showing Swamp Thing locked in a life and death struggle with a nightmarish creature from the deepest depths of Hell. Signed by Totleben in the lower left corner, the piece measures approximately 20" x 30" on board and is in excellent condition. A truly striking image that is not soon forgotten.
Auction 803 | Lot: 6099 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $5,060.00
Unknown Artist - Original Cover Art for Big Little Book #1467, "Tarzan: In the Land of the Giant Apes" (Whitman, circa 1940). During the early 30s to early 40s, comics were in there infancy. Children of era were enamored with Big Little Books however. Literally millions of them were sold. Although hundreds of titles were produced, the original art for these treasures is extremely scarce. This one is exceptional too. The condition is perfect. The colors are as brilliant as the day it was painted. It has a good size too, measuring 15.5" x 15.5".
Auction 803 | Lot: 6176 | Jul 7, 2002

Sold For: $5,060.00

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