Harper’s September

A hand-painted replica of Edward Penfield’s masterpiece Harper’s September, 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. He is best known for his work with Harper's Magazine, where he served as the art director from 1891 to 1901. During his tenure, Penfield created a series of monthly posters promoting the magazine, which are now considered iconic examples of American poster art.

"Harper’s September" is one of these celebrated posters, created in 1895. This particular work is part of a series that Penfield designed to advertise the monthly issues of Harper's Magazine. Each poster typically featured a seasonal theme, reflecting the content or mood of the magazine for that month. Penfield's posters were known for their bold, simplified forms and flat colors, which were influenced by the Art Nouveau movement and the work of European poster artists like Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.

In "Harper’s September," Penfield employs his characteristic style, using a limited color palette and strong outlines to create a visually striking image. The poster features a fashionable woman dressed in autumn attire, holding a copy of Harper's Magazine. The design is both elegant and modern, capturing the essence of the changing season while also appealing to the magazine's sophisticated readership. Penfield's ability to blend art with advertising helped to elevate the status of commercial illustration during this period.

Penfield's work for Harper's Magazine was instrumental in popularizing the poster as a form of advertising in the United States. His designs were not only effective in promoting the magazine but also contributed to the broader acceptance of graphic design as a legitimate art form. The posters were often displayed in bookstores and on newsstands, where their eye-catching designs attracted the attention of potential readers.

The impact of Penfield's work extended beyond his immediate contributions to Harper's Magazine. He played a significant role in shaping the visual language of American advertising and graphic design at the turn of the century. His posters are now considered important historical artifacts, reflecting both the artistic trends of the time and the cultural context in which they were created.

Edward Penfield's legacy as a pioneer of American illustration and graphic design continues to be recognized today. His work is held in high regard by art historians and collectors, and his posters are featured in the collections of major museums, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. "Harper’s September" remains a testament to Penfield's skill and creativity, exemplifying the enduring appeal of his artistic vision.