Harper’s Nov’B’R

A hand-painted replica of Edward Penfield’s masterpiece Harper’s Nov’B’R, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.

Edward Penfield was an influential American illustrator and a key figure in the development of graphic design in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One of his notable works is the cover illustration for the November 1895 issue of Harper's Magazine, commonly referred to as "Harper’s Nov’B’R." This piece is a quintessential example of Penfield's style and his contribution to the art of poster design.

Edward Penfield was born in 1866 in Brooklyn, New York, and studied at the Art Students League of New York. He became the art director for Harper's Magazine in 1891, a position he held until 1901. During his tenure, Penfield created a series of monthly posters for the magazine, which were instrumental in establishing the visual identity of Harper's and in popularizing the medium of the poster in America.

"Harper’s Nov’B’R" is a classic example of Penfield's work, characterized by its bold composition and clear, concise imagery. The illustration features a woman dressed in autumn attire, holding an umbrella and a copy of Harper's Magazine. The use of flat colors and simplified forms reflects the influence of the Art Nouveau movement and the Japanese woodblock prints that were popular among Western artists at the time. Penfield's work is noted for its clarity and elegance, qualities that made his posters highly effective as both art and advertising.

The design of "Harper’s Nov’B’R" is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, capturing the essence of the season while promoting the magazine. Penfield's ability to convey a narrative through minimalistic design elements was a hallmark of his style. His posters often featured solitary figures engaged in everyday activities, set against simple backgrounds that emphasized the subject and the product being advertised.

Penfield's contributions to graphic design extend beyond his work with Harper's. He was a pioneer in the field, helping to elevate the status of the poster as a legitimate art form. His work influenced a generation of illustrators and designers, and his legacy can be seen in the continued popularity of vintage poster art.

In addition to his work as an illustrator, Penfield was also an accomplished painter and a member of several art societies, including the Society of Illustrators, which he helped to found. His work was exhibited widely during his lifetime, and he received numerous accolades for his contributions to the arts.

Edward Penfield passed away in 1925, but his work continues to be celebrated for its innovation and artistic merit. "Harper’s Nov’B’R" remains a significant piece in the history of graphic design, exemplifying the blend of art and commerce that defined Penfield's career. His posters are collected and studied for their historical importance and their enduring aesthetic appeal.