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Lee Elias Chamber of Chills #19 Cover Original Art (Harvey, 1953). This is one of those small handful of iconic pieces of original comic art that not only define an era in comics history, but have also taken on huge impact in the culture at large. A glass of sparkling champagne, a lit cigarette, and a beautiful lady usually make for a "Happy Anniversary," which is the title of the cover-featured story inside this classic pre-Code horror issue illustrated by Bob Powell. As with many of the greatest pre-Code horror issues, the cover assignment was given to Lee Elias by Harvey art director Warren Kremer, who provided a preliminary layout for Elias to produce the finished pencils and inks. The final result is one of the all-time greatest covers-not only for all Golden Age horror, but for the entire history of comics -- that portends the coming of death and which burned an indelibly lasting impression on the minds of kids growing up in the early 1950s. As one of the most potent images of the era, it was also used decades later by Glenn Danzig as the cover for the 1984 EP Die, Die My Darling by the legendary band The Misfits. And as such, it can be found on scores of t-shirts and posters to this day. This original art has never before been offered on the market, having been hidden away in the same collection for decades, so both comic fans and fans of Danzig and The Misfits should take note!
Rendered in ink over graphite on Bristol board archivally mounted on acid-free board, with an image area of 10" x 15". A scratch art technique was used on the cigarette smoke, the woman's rotting face, and the light flare on the glass. As such, these do not detract from the condition of the piece. There are glossy white stickers on the archival board outside of the image area, and minor light toning spots on the light flare and smoke. Some text is created in white paint, and there are black ink touch-up spots under the first "l" in "Chill". The logo and header dressing are modern day replacements affixed to the board. In overall Excellent condition.


More information about Lee Elias. See also: Elias, Lee, Leopold Elias, Elias, Leopold Artist. Lookup the Comic Book in our Guide

Auction Info

Auction Dates
September, 2020
10th-13th Thursday-Sunday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 29
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 15,959

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
20% of the successful bid per lot.

Jerry Weist's Comic Art Price Guide 2011
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