Harper’s November

A hand-painted replica of Edward Penfield’s masterpiece Harper’s November, 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 (1866–1925) was an influential American illustrator and graphic designer, often regarded as one of the pioneers of modern poster art in the United States. He is best known for his work as the art director for Harper's Magazine, where he created a series of monthly cover illustrations that became iconic examples of late 19th and early 20th-century American graphic design.

One of Penfield's notable works is Harper’s November, a cover illustration created for Harper's Magazine in November 1895. This piece exemplifies Penfield's signature style, which combined simplicity, bold outlines, and flat areas of color, influenced by the Art Nouveau movement and the poster art of European artists such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Penfield's work was instrumental in adapting these styles to the American audience, making them more accessible and appealing.

Harper’s November features a solitary figure dressed in autumnal attire, holding an umbrella and a copy of Harper's Magazine. The image captures a sense of seasonal transition, with the figure's clothing and the muted color palette evoking the crisp, cool atmosphere of November. The composition is both functional and artistic, designed to draw attention to the magazine while also serving as a standalone piece of art. Penfield's ability to balance these dual purposes contributed to his reputation as a master of poster design.

Penfield's covers for Harper's Magazine were not only advertisements for the publication but also reflections of contemporary life and culture. His work often depicted everyday scenes and activities, resonating with the magazine's readership and helping to establish a visual identity for the publication. These covers are now considered significant examples of American illustration and are studied for their artistic and historical value.

Edward Penfield's contributions to graphic design and illustration have left a lasting legacy. His work, including Harper’s November, is celebrated for its innovation and its role in shaping the visual language of American advertising and publishing during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, his illustrations are held in high regard by art historians and collectors, and they continue to be featured in exhibitions and publications dedicated to the history of graphic design.