Tom McNeely (Canadian, B. 1935) "Firemen Raising Flag over Rubble" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor painting on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 37+8c Semi-postal stamp issued June 7, 2002. On the morning of September 11, 2001, the worst terrorist attack in U.S. history struck America at its core after four airliners were hijacked. Two were flown into the twin World Trade Center towers in New York City, one hit the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and a fourth was brought crashing down into a Pennsylvania field by its heroic passengers. More than 2,800 people were killed. That day ordinary people performed extraordinary deeds, defying danger and death to save others. In a valiant rescue effort, courageous fire fighters in New York City charged up the stairs of the flaming towers of the World Trade Center, sacrificing their own lives when the buildings collapsed. A sense of grief and loss spread across the nation, evoking a surge of patriotism and a heartfelt willingness to share. This artwork captures New York fire fighters raising the U.S. flag amidst the rubble of the World Trade Center. The inspirational image of fire fighters raising Old Glory atop a heap of rubble, like that of Marines raising the Flag on rugged Iwo Jima during World War II, became a symbol of the indomitable American spirit. Image Size: 14 x 12 in. Overall Size: 21 x 18 in. Unframed. (B17001)
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Keith Bowen (UK, B. 1950) "Welsh Mountain Sheep" Signed lower right. Original Chalk on Construction Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the Great Britain 39p Wintertime Welsh Mountain Sheep stamp issued January 14, 1992. The lush countryside of Wales is home to the Welsh mountain sheep. This ruminant mammal is an extremely hardy creature which roams across the hills and mountains of Wales in search of rich grass. Three acres of pasture are needed to support one sheep, and during harsh winters extra food must be supplied for them. Each sheep is bound by heredity to a particular part of the mountain. The animal instinctively knows its boundaries, called "cynefin" in Welsh. The sheep remains steadfastly within these confines, and the ewe passes this innate knowledge of boundaries on to its offspring. Mating occurs in November, and gestation lasts 147 days. In early April the first lambs arrive, and it is vital for the young sheep to gain enough weight and strength to survive their first winter. This painting depicts a magnificent ram, its impressive horns spiralling outward. Image Size: 18 x 21 in. Overall Size: 22 x 25.75 in. Unframed. (B13555)
Keith Bowen (UK, B. 1950) "European Hare" Signed lower right. Original Chalk on Construction Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the Great Britain 24p Wintertime European Hare stamp issued January 14, 1992. Members of the leporidae family, hares are animals with roots reaching back into the Paleocene era. This familiar long-eared creature is even mentioned in folklore and mythology, for the Germanic earth goddess Ostara favored hares above all other animals. Contrary to some popular thought, hares are not forest or deep woodland creatures. They commonly occur in open terrain and around cultivated fields which yield year-round sustenance for the population. Hares avoid high elevations and cold, moist ground, preferring warm, dry habitats with rich loamy ground coverings. These animals are non-migratory and usually live their lives within a mile or two of their birthplace. Hares are born fully furred and are nursed for two to three weeks thereafter. After weaning, the young hares eat adult fare. Wild hares are strictly herbivorous, and their diet includes green plants, twigs, bark, shrubs and weed seeds. In cultivated areas, hares frequently help themselves to produce such as cabbage, parsley and winter grains. Their eyesight is relatively poor; they can usually detect movement, but little else. Hares depend upon their sharpest senses -- hearing and smell -- to alert them to danger and often stand on their powerful hind legs to test their surroundings. Image Size: 18 x 21 in. Overall Size: 22 x 26 in. Unframed. (B13559)
Ivan Akimovich Sushchenko (Russian, B. 1930) "North American Bison" Signed lower left. Original Oil painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 80c Pan-American Invert: American Bison stamp issued March 29, 2001. The Pan-American Exposition opened on May 1, 1901, in the beautiful city of Buffalo, New York. To truly represent the city, as well as American progress and achievement, the exposition committee selected the buffalo as a proud symbol to promote this spectacular event. Identified by its distinctive shoulder hump and curved horns, this creature is the heaviest land animal in North America -- weighing up to 2,000 pounds. Thick, coarse hair protects it from the harsh winters of the plains. For centuries, these majestic animals were essential to the survival of the Plains Indian tribes. Buffalo provided almost every necessity -- food, clothing and shelter. Hides were made into leggings, mittens, caps, moccasins, shirts, dresses, robes and blankets. Thongs of rawhide were used to tie the heads of hammers and clubs. Nothing was wasted -- bones were used for tools for farming, sinews as thread and bowstrings, horns as spoons, ladles and cups. Buffalo tallow was burned to provide light, and the hooves made into ceremonial rattles. These animals played an important role in Native American beliefs and rituals as well. Many a tribe beseeched the Great Spirit to keep the herds always plentiful. Image Size: 9 x 13.75 in. Overall Size: 11.75 x 16.25 in. Unframed. (B16914)
Tom McNeely (Canadian, B. 1935) "Sitting Bull" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor painting on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day of Issue Maximum Card for the U.S. 28c Sitting Bull stamp issued September 28, 1989. Named for his father, the great Indian leader Sitting Bull was born in a time of turmoil. He believed strongly that his Sioux heritage was a noble one, and he quickly proved himself a great hunter and warrior. At the age of just fourteen, he accompanied his father on the warpath against the Crow Indian tribe. In the years that followed, Sitting Bull also became known among the Sioux tribes as a medicine man, a peacemaker and an organizer. His influence was great and his dedication to his people was unsurpassed. When white settlers began to infringe upon Sioux lands, Sitting Bull saw the threat. He watched as the Indian ways began to die, and he resisted the limitations put upon his people. It was Sitting Bull who organized thousands of warriors of the Sioux Confederacy to meet General George Custer at the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Just before that historic battle, Sitting Bull told his men about a dream he'd had of soldiers falling into the Indian camp. That vision of victory provided inspiration to the Indian warriors. Throughout the battle, Sitting Bull prayed for additional spiritual guidance. After Custer's defeat, Sitting Bull fled to Canada and did not return to the U.S. until 1881, when he was granted amnesty. Confined to the Standing Rock reservation, Sitting Bull remained a great leader and a symbol to his people until he was killed in a scuffle with Indian police on December 15, 1890. Image Size: 17.5 x 15.25 in. Overall Size: 28.25 x 22 in. Unframed. (B11708)
Mel Crawford (Canadian, B. 1925) "Philippines" Signed lower left. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the U.N. 20c Philippines Flags of the U.N. Series stamp issued September 24, 1982. When Magellan first landed in the Philippines in 1563, he saw a land filled with dark green jungles, delicate purple orchids, and sparkling white beaches. In the centuries since Magellan's visit, the natural, pristine beauty of the land has remained. Moreover, this magnificent labyrinth of islands contains one of the most varied collections of natural resources of any country in the Pacific. From the thick forests of "Philippine Mahogany" to the gold and silver mines in the South, the resources of the Philippines offer a sound foundation on which the dreams of development can be built. Today, those dreams are well on their way to becoming reality for the roughly 7100 islands that form one of Asia's leading nations. The gleaming towers of Manila not only reflect the perfect blue water of the bay, but also the fact that the city is one of the most advanced in Asia. The inhabitants of the Philippines, diverse as the many bright seashells found on the beaches, often choose to preserve their traditional way of life in spite of modernization. For example, deep in the jungles of the southern islands live some of the most primitive tribes in the world who subsist by eating only food that they gather that day. In the South, the Muslim Moros, following traditional methods, still dive into the seas for the treasured pearls. The motive seems clear: this charming land cherishes its past so that it can better adapt technology to meet the needs of its people. Image Size: 14.25 x 12.25 in. Overall Size: 17 x 15 in. Unframed. (B07572)
Mel Crawford (Canadian, B. 1925) "Fresco Art" Signed lower right. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.N. 20c Divislava and Sebastocrator Kaloyan, Bulgarian Mural stamp issued April 15, 1981. Fresco art, the artistic technique Michelangelo used to paint the Sistine Chapel, has given the world some of its greatest masterpieces. The style is named fresco, the Italian word for fresh, because its paintings are created by brushing watercolors on fresh plaster. Before beginning his work, the artist applies as much fresh plaster as he can paint in one day to the wall he plans to decorate. The artist must work rapidly for he cannot paint over the plaster once it dries. The artist's colors dry and set with the plaster, becoming a permanent part of the wall. Some of the greatest frescos ever painted were completed during the Italian Renaissance. However, since fresco art is so demanding to create, the technique has declined since that glorious age of artistic excellence. Image Size: 14.5 x 12.25 in. Overall Size: 16.75 x 15 in. Unframed. (B07017)
Tom Lydon (American, B. 1944) "Flag over Porch" Signed lower right. Original Chalk on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the 32c Flag Over Porch Self-Adhesive stamp issued April 18, 1995. Colorful parades. Stirring speeches. Waving flags. All mark the observance of Veteran's Day across America. Originally instituted as Armistice Day by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919, this national holiday was first enacted to commemorate the signing of the truce that ended World War I. However, in deference to all American war veterans, on June 1, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed an act of Congress "to honor veterans on the eleventh day of November of each year ... a day dedicated to world peace." Thus Veteran's Day was born. One of the most moving tributes to American veterans is held annually in Arlington, Virginia. There services take place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located in Arlington National Cemetery. Over the years, group naturalization ceremonies have also become an important part of Veteran's Day activities. In Canada, November 11 has come to be known as Remembrance Day, and in Great Britain, the Sunday closest to that date is called Remembrance Sunday. Both countries have set aside these days to honor those who died in world wars. In France, November 11 continues to be celebrated as Armistice Day. Deemed one of the holidays during which the U.S. flag should be displayed, Veteran's Day is marked by Old Glory flying in front of homes and public buildings throughout America. Image Size: 14 x 12.25 in. Overall Size: 20 x 15.75 in. Unframed. (B15086)
Peter Barrett (British, B. 1935) "Appaloosa Horse" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 22c Appaloosa stamp issued September 25, 1985. The cradle of the modern-day horse lies in North America, for it was here that the ancestors of the modern day horse first evolved. These ancient horses eventually migrated over existing land bridges to Europe and Asia. However, for reasons not fully understood, the horse became extinct on its native American continent during the Ice Age. The horse did not reappear on American soil again until Spanish explorers brought horses with them on their discovery journeys. Some of these horses escaped and formed wild herds which were later domesticated by the American Indians. The Nez Perce Indian tribe of Idaho domesticated, and actually preserved, what may be one of the oldest breeds of horses -- the colorful and spotted Appaloosa. Prized by the Indians for their unique markings, as well as their speed and hardiness, the Appaloosa horses were often owned exclusively by chiefs and the bravest of warriors. Interestingly, the Nez Perce Appaloosa was strikingly similar in markings to an ancient breed of horse seen in early Chinese and Persian art forms. Their ancestors probably reached Europe by way of Asia and were then taken to Mexico by Spanish explorers, eventually migrating north to the Nez Perce Indians. Although it is likely that the purity of the Appaloosa has been preserved through centuries of migration, the horse was not recognized as an official breed until 1938. Today, the beautiful Appaloosa horse is one of America's most popular pleasure and show horses. Image Size: 12 x 10 in. Overall Size: 18.5 x 16.25 in. Unframed. (B09727)
Tom Lydon (American, B. 1944) "Flag over Field" Signed lower right. Original Chalk on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the 32c Flag Over Field ATM Self-Adhesive stamp issued March 17, 1995. Inspiring the viewer to recall the immortal words of the patriotic hymn America the Beautiful, the flag flies proudly against the backdrop of spacious skies, waving over the amber waves of grain for which America is justly famous. Besides being raised daily over America's vast tracts of fertile farmland, the Stars and Stripes have waved in many locations around the world -- and on other worlds. Reputedly designed by Betsy Ross in 1776, it wasn't until August 16, 1777, that Old Glory saw its first Revolutionary War battle. It was carried by American troops in the Battle of Bennington on the New York-Vermont border. Just a few months later -- on November 1, 1777 -- the Star-spangled Banner was hoisted aboard John Paul Jones' Ranger, the first time it flew on a U.S. Navy vessel. On December 1, 1777, that ship arrived in Nantes, France, marking the first time the American flag had ever flown in a foreign port. The flag initially reached Antarctica in 1840 and flew over the North Pole in 1909. It was erected there on April 6th by the U.S. Navy's Robert E. Peary. Painted on NASA space ships, the flag boldly ventured into outer space, and on July 20, 1969, a specially-created flag -- designed to fly in an airless environment -- was raised on the lunar surface by astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin. Image Size: 14.25 x 12.25 in. Overall Size: 19.75 x 15.25 in. Unframed. (B15038)
Dennis Lyall (American, B. 1946) "Marshallese Woman and Star" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Canvas. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the Marshall Islands 29? Christmas 1992 stamp issued October 26, 1992. In the 1860s, American missionaries came to the Marshall Islands to preach the Christian Gospel. Today the Marshallese are predominantly Christian, although they retain elements of their native customs which are steeped in tradition and rich in spirituality. Generosity is a hallmark of the Marshallese culture, and the Christmas tradition of gift-giving is beautifully enhanced when combined with graceful Marshallese traditions. In this artwork, a Marshallese woman proffers a gift of fruit to a radiant star much like the one which led the Wise Men to the Christ Child. Image Size: 11.5 x 18 in. Overall Size: 14 x 21 in. Unframed. (B14038)
Shannon Stirnweis (B. 1931) "Bicentennial of the New York Stock Exchange" Signed middle left. Original Oil painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the U.S. 29c Bicentennial of the New York Stock Exchange stamp issued May 17, 1992. In 1792 a group of 24 men convened under a buttonwood tree in New York to discuss their mutual interest in finances and investments. From this encounter, which took place on what is now Wall Street, evolved the world's largest marketplace for securities -- the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE). Formally instituted in 1817 as the New York Stock and Exchange Board, the organization flourished during the early 19th century, when America's emphasis on mercantilism and expansion of the railroads stimulated growth in the securities marketplace. But many investors lost heavily in the Panic of 1837, and the exchange subsequently required all listed companies to provide public disclosures of financial records before offering stock. Adopting its present name in 1863, the exchange furnished much of the capital needed to move America into the post-Civil War industrial era. After 1868, seats on the exchange -- limited to 1,366 since 1868 -- were obtained only by purchase from an existing member. A corporation seeking to list on the NYSE must meet rigorous conditions. It must earn a minimum of $2.5 million before taxes, possess at least one million shares of outstanding stock, grant voting rights to common stockholders and publish regular financial statements. Since the Great Depression of 1929, the NYSE has been regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Image Size: 14.25 x 19.25 in. Overall Size: 18.25 x 23.25 in. Unframed. (B13725)
Chris Calle (American, B. 1961) "Life of Sun Yat-sen - Mausoleum" Signed lower right. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Republic of the Marshall Islands Life of Sun Yat-sen $1.00 Sun Yat-sen and Mausoleum stamp issued November 12, 2000. Sun Yat-sen died in Beijing on March 12, 1925. In 1929, Sun's remains were transferred to a magnificent mausoleum constructed for him in Nanjing, the site of his first provisional government. Situated on the southern slopes of the Zijin Mountains, the memorial grounds cover 20 acres. A flight of 392 marble steps leads to the tomb. Inside, a seated statue of Sun is surrounded by black marble walls engraved with his quotations in gold letters. Behind the statue is a door that leads to a domed hall and a gallery where a recumbent marble statue of Sun lies over his remains. Many cultural relics are displayed in the mausoleum, including a manuscript of lectures on the principle of democracy, a draft of the speech on The Three Principles of the People, a copy of the Provisional Law of the Republic of China, and calligraphy and personal belongings of Sun. Image Size: 9 x 10.5 in. Overall Size: 14 x 17.5 in. Unframed. (B16890)
Paul Connor (Rhode Island, 20th C) "Butterflies" Signed upper right. Original Watercolor painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood Proofcard for the U.S. 13c Butterflies stamp issue of June 6, 1977. Thoreau said that the study of butterflies extends the limits of being in new directions, so that "I walk in nature with a sense of greater space and freedom. It suggests, besides, that the universe is not rough-hewn, but perfect in its details." A butterfly is among the most beautiful of creatures. There's so little structure or power to produce such a flash of light and color. Their color is partly dyes and partly diffraction of light and is similar to the colors seen on a wet oily street or in a rainbow. The colors, some brilliant and some subdued, protect the butterflies by letting them blend with their background, by advertising that they taste bad, by suddenly dazzling their pursuer, or by making them resemble a larger animal the pursuer fears. Butterflies have been seen at amazing heights by airplane pilots and far out to sea where they have landed on ships to rest during migrations. Most species eat plants, some eat insects, and some cross-pollinate the many flowers they visit. Some newly-hatched bachelor butterflies swarm around a mud puddle for days before beginning their search for a mate. There are species which like to fight, attacking birds, dogs, and people, often driving them away. Butterflies and the rest of nature were classified by Carl von Linne -- Linnaeus in Latin. His name is part of the scientific name of many butterflies, indicating that he named them first, for example, the pipevine swallowtail is Papilio philenor Linnaeus. Image Size: 16 x 17 in. Overall Framed Size: 22.25 x 23.25 in. Framed behind plexiglass. (B05187)
Paul Connor (Rhode Island, 20th C) "Swallowtail Butterfly" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood Proofcard for the U.S. 13c Swallowtail Butterfly stamp issued June 6, 1977. There is probably no other family of butterflies as familiar to everyone as the Swallowtails. This family includes many of the largest and most beautifully colored American butterflies. Most of the five hundred species of Swallowtails are found in the tropics and the Birdwing Swallowtails, from tropical Australia, are among the biggest butterflies in the world. There are two notable differences between Papilio oregonius and the common Swallowtail, Papilio machaon. The eye-like spot on the front of each wing, about 3mm in diameter on the P. machaon, is reduced to almost a dot on the P. oregonius; the bright yellow bands parallel to the thorax, crossing the wing bases on the P. oregonius, are much duller on the thorax of P. machaon. The Papilio oregonius is probably a descendant of varieties found in South America. Its establishment in the Pacific Northwest was aided by the warming produced by the California current which is unusual at latitudes that high. The Oregon Swallowtail reproduces twice a year, and can be seen on the wing from April to September in the Northwest. Those seen early in the year are generally lighter in color than those seen later and blend well with the color of early plants. The distribution of Papilio oregonius is from southern British Columbia, eastern Washington and Oregon, to Idaho and western Montana. Image Size: 16 x 17 in. Overall Framed Size: 22.25 x 23.25 in. Framed behind plexiglass. (B05186)
John Swatsley (American, B. 1937) "Scenes of Morocco" Signed lower right. Original Watercolor painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 22 Friendship with Morocco stamp issued July 17, 1987. Morocco was among the first nations to recognize the independence of the United States after the Revolutionary War. As the new nation began to trade with Europe and the Middle East, her ships were often attacked by the Barbary Pirates of Tunis and Tripoli. After unsuccessful negotiations between the U.S. Minister to Great Britain, John Adams, and the Tripoli government, the American Congress sent Thomas Barclay to neighboring Morocco to negotiate a separate treaty of peace and friendship. Moroccan Emperor Sidi Mohammed III, eager to gain a strong foreign trading partner, agreed to provide safe harbor for American merchant vessels -- and to intercede when they were seized by the Barbary states. Barclay conceded to the Emperor's demand for a nominal annual monetary tribute. Thus, an agreement was reached. In Morocco's capital, Marrakech, on June 23, 1786, the Treaty of Marrakech was signed. The next summer, on July 18, 1787, the treaty of peace and friendship was ratified by Congress and thus began the longest unbroken amity treaty in American diplomatic history. Image Size: 14 x 12 in. Overall Size: 20.5 x 18 in. Unframed. (B10943)
Ron Sloan (American, B. 1950) "U.S. Flag and Statue of Freedom" Signed lower right. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This artwork originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 22c Flag Over Capitol coil stamp issued March 29, 1985. As it has for nearly two hundred years, the American Flag flies high above the stone and marble building of the United States Capitol. Countless hearts have been filled with pride at the site of this revered structure, for no other building -- not even the White House -- is more closely linked to the great strength and glory of the United States of America. It stands at the heart of America's democratic government ... and is the focal point of the resounding deeds, ideals, and aspirations of the American people. High atop the majestic Dome, the Capitol is crowned with a great bronze goddess known as the "Statue of Freedom." The work of American sculptor Thomas Crawford, the Statue is shaped as a classically robed woman holding a wreath resting on a shield in one hand and a sword in the other. Crawford had originally designed her as "Armed Liberty" with the soft feathered cap worn by freed Roman slaves, but changed her headdress to a helmet of eagle feathers after objections by Jefferson Davis. Molded in Crawford's Rome studio and later cast in bronze in a Washington foundry, Freedom was finally raised on to the Capitol Dome on December 2, 1863. The United States Flag, bearing thirty-five stars representing all the states of the Union -- both North and South -- fluttered overhead as spectators cheered. Today, the majestic Statue of Freedom still ennobles the Capitol's Dome. Image Size: 17.5 x 15.25 in. Overall Size: 25.25 x 19.75 in. Unframed. (B09456)
Paul Calle (American, 1928 - 2010) and Chris Calle (American, B. 1961) "1920s - Art Deco" Signed lower right. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. Celebrate the Century Series 32 Art Deco Style stamp issued May 28, 1998. The surge toward modernism in the 1920s was evident not only in personal dress and mannerisms -- featuring raccoon coats, long cigarette holders and hip-flasks -- but in architecture and interior design as well, which changed from traditional, richly-carved ornamentation to sleek, simple geometric patterns. The speed and efficiency of mass production influenced builders and furniture makers who strived to create modern as well as functional new designs. The challenge was to achieve harmony between technology, practicality and aesthetics, elements that appeared often in the 1920's Art Deco Style of architecture. A classic example is New York City's spectacular Chrysler Building. Designed by William Van Alen, construction of this skyscraper was begun in 1926 and completed in 1930. Geometric patterns predominate in the building's decorative facade and interior. One of the first skyscrapers to sheath large surfaces with stainless steel, the Chrysler Building features automobile icons in the frieze on the setback of the tower's base. The stately spire, decorated with a distinctive sunburst pattern, presents a striking contrast against the Manhattan skyline. The building's pierless corners and classic design typify 1920's modernism. Art Deco architecture continued well into the 1930s, as exemplified by New York's RCA Building and the Empire State Building. Image Size: 17.75 x 13.25 in. Overall Size: 23.25 x 16 in. Unframed. (B16099 / B16100)
Alexander Mikhailovich Kurkin (Russian, B. 1916) "The Frog Princess -- The Brothers Shooting Arrows" Signed lower edge. Original Painted lacquered plate. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the MIPS Mint Stamp for the Marshall Islands "The Frog Princess" stamp issue of April 28, 2002. One of the most popular fairy tales depicted in the Russian Palekh style of painting is The Frog Princess. The story begins when Prince Ivan and his two brothers must find a bride by shooting an arrow into the air. His brothers arrows are returned by love ladies, but Ivan's arrow is returned by an enchanted frog. The king orders each bride to sew him a shirt, bake him a loaf of bread, and dance for him. Ivan despairs because his "frog princess" cannot possibly accomplish these tasks. But each night the frog casts off its skin and turns into a beautiful maiden, winning the king's favor -- afterwards she turns back into a frog. One night, Ivan destroys the frog's skin, hoping that the princess; will never become a frog again. As a result, she is forced to leave Ivan forever. Years later he finds a hut in which an old woman lives who shows him how to get the princess back. Ivan and the princess are reunited and fly off together on a magic carpet. Diameter: 9.5 in. (B06860)
Alexander Mikhailovich Kurkin (Russian, B. 1916) "The Frog Princess -- First Brother Finds Wife" Signed lower edge. Original Painted lacquered plate. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the MIPS Mint Stamp for the Marshall Islands "The Frog Princess" stamp issue of April 28, 2002. One of the most popular fairy tales depicted in the Russian Palekh style of painting is The Frog Princess. The story begins when Prince Ivan and his two brothers must find a bride by shooting an arrow into the air. His brothers arrows are returned by love ladies, but Ivan's arrow is returned by an enchanted frog. The king orders each bride to sew him a shirt, bake him a loaf of bread, and dance for him. Ivan despairs because his "frog princess" cannot possibly accomplish these tasks. But each night the frog casts off its skin and turns into a beautiful maiden, winning the king's favor -- afterwards she turns back into a frog. One night, Ivan destroys the frog's skin, hoping that the princess; will never become a frog again. As a result, she is forced to leave Ivan forever. Years later he finds a hut in which an old woman lives who shows him how to get the princess back. Ivan and the princess are reunited and fly off together on a magic carpet. Diameter: 9.5 in. (B06861)
Howard Koslow (New Jersey, New York, 1924 - 2016) "Count Basie" Signed lower left. Original Acrylic painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the American Music Series 32c Count Basie stamp issued September 11, 1996. Born in 1904 to talented amateur musician parents, William Basie first learned to play the drums with his school band. While still in his teens, Basie began taking piano lessons from his mother. He later studied with the master of piano jazz, Fats Waller, who also taught Basie how to play the organ. Basie performed in the early 1920s in Harlem, a city with a rich musical night life. In 1926, he headed west to Kansas City, Missouri, where jazz had come into its own, and found his first job there playing pit organ for a theater. In 1935, he became the leader of a nine-piece band. Basie was renowned for having a fine sense of tempo and a distinctive playing style. "He left out more than a lot of people played," commented Joe Williams, who sang for the Basie band in the 1950s. To promote himself, Basie adopted the nickname "Count" and had business cards printed with the saying "Beware - The Count is Here." The name stuck. Basie and his band developed a swinging style that was large and robust, and appealed to audiences everywhere. The band's notoriety attracted the best and the brightest, including such greats as Billie Holiday and Jimmy Rushing. For nearly five decades, Count Basie entertained audiences and his love for jazz never faltered. In the early 1980s, a series of illnesses made walking difficult for Basie, so he purchased an automatic wheel chair. With enormous flair, he would drive onto the stage, slide onto the piano bench and swing his band into spirited action. Image Size: 14 x 12 in. Overall Size: 20.75 x 18 in. Unframed. (B15526)
Jim Butcher (American, B. 1944) "Signing of the Declaration of Independence" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Canvas. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 18c Yorktown & Lexington/Concord stamp issues of October 16, 1981. The Second Continental Congress, preparing for that historic day when independence would be voted, appointed a committee to draft the Declaration of Independence. The noble task fell on Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston. Because the resolution for independence had been introduced in the name of Virginia, it was only proper that a Virginian should author the Declaration, and the committee thus chose Jefferson to be its creator. Jefferson retired to his rented flat at the corner of Seventh and Market Streets where he spent the next two weeks producing his "expression of the American mind." The finished document was presented to the Congress on June 28, 1776. On July 2, the Congress edited, revised, and thus reduced the 1800-word draft of the Declaration of Independence by one-fourth. Finally, on July 4, 1776, Congress unanimously adopted the improved version of the Declaration. Contrary to popular belief, the document that conceived a new nation was not actually signed until August 2 after it was engrossed on parchment. Image Size: 16 x 16 in. Overall Size: 20 x 19.75 in. Unframed. (B07283)
Gherman Alexeyvich Komlev (Russian, 1933 - 2000) "Tsar Nicholas II - Coronation of the Tsar" Signed lower right. Original Watercolor on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Republic of the Marshall Islands 60c Coronation of Tsar Nicholas II 1896 stamp issued July 17, 1998. On May 26, 1896, Nicholas II was crowned Tsar of All Russia. At his coronation ceremony two events occurred that are said to have foreshadowed his early demise. During the ceremony, a St. Andrew's Cross that Nicholas was wearing mysteriously fell to the floor. This was taken as a bad omen by many people, including his wife the Tsarina Alexandra. Meanwhile, a crowd of half a million peasants had gathered to watch the regal ceremony in a nearby field. The assemblage surged forward and thousands of people were accidentally crushed to death. The Tsar wished to cancel a scheduled party, retire to a monastery and pray. Instead, he relied on the poor advice of his ministers and attended the ball. Nicholas' reputation was damaged immeasurably when no official recognition of the tragedy was made. Image Size: 9.25 x 21.25 in. Overall Size: 10.5 x 22.75 in. Unframed. (B16044)
Gordon Beningfield (British, 1936 - 1998) "Ohi'a Lehua" Signed lower right. Original Watercolor painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the U.S. 29c Ohi'a Lehua stamp issued July 24, 1992. Found in shrublands and moist to wet forests, ohi'a lehua is one of the most abundant trees of Hawaii. It occurs on all of the main islands except Ni'ihau and Kaho'olawe. Although in drier areas ohi'a lehua remains a small shrub, in cool, moist conditions at high elevations it can reach heights of 100 feet. The rough, grooved bark separates in thick flakes or, if smooth, in long, thin strips. The striking flowers are composed of prominent tufts of stamens -- usually red -- with small, inconspicuous petals. Birds such as the apapane and i'iwi help pollinate the flowers as they feed on sweet nectar. Tiny seeds form in woody capsules that eventually break and release the seeds for dispersal by the wind. The genus name comes from the Greek words metra -- heartwood -- and sideron -- iron -- which refers to the hardness of the wood. The Hawai'ian name describes the dark red color of the blossoms. Ohi'a lehua is sacred to Pele, the goddess of the volcano. Image Size: 7 x 6 in. Overall Size: 12 x 11 in. Unframed. (B13478)
Chris Calle (American, B. 1961) "Robert E. Lee" Signed lower right. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the U.S. 32c Robert E. Lee stamp issued June 29, 1995. Handsome and intelligent, a moralist who never drank, smoke or cursed, Robert E. Lee believed duty to be the noblest word in the English language. During the Mexican War, General Winfield Scott called the brave young Virginian the "greatest military genius in America." Unlike many Southerners, Lee was opposed to slavery and secession, and had freed the few slaves he inherited long before the Civil War began. But he admired George Washington and believed his state was protecting the liberty, freedom and legal principles that Washington had fought for. On May 31, 1862, General Joseph E. Johnston, commander of Confederate forces in Virginia, was wounded at the Battle of Fair Oaks. The following day, Lee took command, calling his troops the Army of Northern Virginia. Although seriously outnumbered, Lee won impressive victories at the second Battle of Bull Run, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. Taking the offensive at Gettysburg, Lee's forces met defeat in a three-day battle that proved to be the turning point of the war. In the spring of 1864, facing Ulysses S. Grant for the first time, Lee's outmanned and outgunned troops were cut to pieces in the Wilderness campaign. Lee surrendered to Grant on April 9, 1865. He chose to spend his last years as president of Washington College in Lexington, Virginia. Following his death on October 12, 1870, the school was renamed Washington and Lee University. Image Size: 15.75 x 16 in. Overall Size: 23.25 x 18.5 in. Unframed. (B15014 / B15057)
Dennis Lyall (American, B. 1946) "Brandywine Flag" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Canvas. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 33c Francis Hopkinson Flag Classic Collection Series stamp issued June 14, 2000. Born on October 2, 1737, in Philadelphia, Francis Hopkinson was educated at the College of Philadelphia (later the University of Pennsylvania). He eventually moved to New Jersey, where he enjoyed a successful legal practice. A dedicated patriot of freedom, Hopkinson was a prolific inventor and proficient in music, poetry and art. He designed the seal of the American Philosophical Society and the seal for the State of New Jersey, as well as seals for various government departments. Hopkinson also designed the first American flag featuring the stars-and-stripes motif. On June 14, 1777, Congress officially adopted Hopkinson's design, stating that "the Flag of the united states be 13 stripes alternate red and white, and the Union be 13 stars white in a blue field representing a new constellation." Because Congress did not specify how the stars should be arranged, several variations were created. Some flags showed the 13 stars in alternating rows of 3 and 2, while others featured 12 stars in a circle with the 13th in the center. One of the most popular designs displayed 13 stars in a circle. Image Size: 10.5 x 14 in. Overall Size: 13 x 18 in. Unframed. (B16736)
Dennis Lyall (American, B. 1946) "1888 Presidential Campaign Badge" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Canvas. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 37c Campaign Badge stamp issued April 3, 2003. Celebrating America's centuries-old love affair with Old Glory, this art depict a presidential campaign badge from 1888 which prominently incorporates the American flag into its design. A fascinating example of 19th-century political memorabilia, the badge features a miniature brass canteen. Inset into the canteen's middle is a cardboard photograph of Benjamin Harrison, who became America's 23rd president. Inscribed on the canteen are the words, "We drank from the same canteen, 1861-1865." The canteen itself is suspended from a bar engraved with the year of the campaign, 1888. Above the bar, the eagle and shield of the United States form the badge's majestic crown. A ribbon replicating the American flag hangs behind the canteen, infusing this curious campaign memento with powerful patriotic meaning. Since the flag was first adopted by the Continental Congress in 1777, this powerful symbol of American patriotism has flown over some of the remotest spots on the planet ... as well as beyond. Captain Robert Gray sailed around the world in 1787 and discovered the Columbia River, bringing Old Glory with him. In 1909, explorer Robert Peary planted a flag sewn by his wife at the North Pole. Climber Barry Bishop placed a flag atop the summit of Mount Everest in 1963. And, in 1969, astronaut Neil Armstrong triumphantly erected an American flag on the surface of the Moon, its stars and stripes held perpetually unfurled over the windless landscape by a metal bar along its top edge. Image Size: 12 x 14 in. Overall Size: 15.5 x 18 in. Unframed. (B17108)
David K. Stone (American, 1922 - 2001) "Liberation of Paris" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting originally appeared on the Republic of the Marshall Islands 50c Liberation of Paris 1944 stamp issued August 25, 1994. The Allied invasion of Normandy on D-Day was merely a prelude to the events that would follow. In the weeks to come, villages and cities across France were liberated from their German conquerors. But Allied planners at first intended to bypass Paris, instead proposing to continue pursuit of the German Army across France. Supreme Commander Dwight Eisenhower changed his mind, however, when informed that Hitler had ordered his forces in Paris to destroy the city. Fortunately, the German commander in Paris, Lieutenant General Dietrich von Choltitz, had no desire to ruin what he considered one of the world's most beautiful cities. Disobeying his orders, he arranged first for a truce with the French Resistance and later surrendered to Allied forces. Image Size: 15.5 x 25.5 in. Overall Size: 23.75 x 27 in. Unframed. (B14780)
Arthur Singer (New York, 1917 - 1990) "Lark Bunting and Columbine" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the 20c Colorado: Lark Bunting and Rocky Mountain Columbine stamp issued on April 14, 1982. Lark Bunting - Lark Buntings come to the Great Plains from Mexico and Louisiana, and their arrival is a lovely spectacle to behold. They fly in by the hundreds, the females in striped brown plumage, the breeding males in gleaming black. The rear ranks of birds flutter continuously to the front, and the entire assembly rolls over the greening land like some marvelous wheel. The splendid male often sings in flight, rocketing upward. The female, however, is less exuberant than her male counterpart, and is content to sit and incubate her nest of pale blue eggs. The Lark Bunting's breeding ground may be on dry plain or moist prairie, wherever nature has provided an abundance of edible seeds and insects. Rocky Mountain Columbine - As legend has it, long ago in Rome when someone saw the quaintly-shaped, five-spurred Columbine, his lively imagination pictured five little doves perched on the rim of a dish feeding together, so he named the flower columbina, from the Latin columba, meaning "dove." The five petals form funnels, each ending in a slender, upward-curving spur. These spurs contain nectar, and short-tongued insects sometimes nip holes in them to collect the sweet juice. Columbines grow wild in many places, and many varieties of different colors -- yellow, purple and blue to name a few -- are cultivated in gardens. The large Rocky Mountain Columbine is the one honored as the state flower of Colorado. Image Size: 13.75 x 11.75 in. Overall Size: 19.5 x 17.5 in. Unframed. (B05065)
Arthur Singer (New York, 1917 - 1990) "Western Meadowlark and Wild Prairie Rose" Signed lower right. Original Watercolor painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the 20c North Dakota: Western Meadowlark and Wild Prairie Rose stamp issued on April 14, 1982. Western Meadowlark - The Western Meadowlark differs from the eastern variety by being paler in the streaked brown of the upper plumage and having a narrower black breast crescent. Bright yellow spreads over the cheeks and colors the underparts of the bird. When in flight, the white feathers in the short tail are very noticeable. This popular bird is a wonderful singer of long, clear, warbling melodies. He is also valued as a destroyer of harmful insects and weed seeds. Called the "Lark of the West," he has strong legs and large feet, and makes good use of them by spending many hours each day walking through meadows and open fields in search of food. Wild Prairie Rose - The Wild Prairie Rose, with stems from six to fifteen feet long, climbs over walls and fences. It also grows in the open as a bush, with the stems growing upright for half their length, and then arching downward. Its flowers grow in a loose cluster, with more buds opening as the earlier blossoms fade. Prairie Roses are deep pink when they open, and change to white in full bloom. The Prairie Rose has underground stems, called root-stocks, which spread widely, running about a foot below the surface of the ground. With intervals between them, new shoots grow up and new roots grow down providing a new Rosebush for the world's enjoyment. Image Size: 13.75 x 11.75 in. Overall Size: 19.5 x 17.5 in. Unframed. (B05061)
Herb Kawainui Kane (American, 1928 - 2011) "Flowers of the Pacific - Tiare" Signed lower left. Original Oil painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Republic of the Marshall Islands 33c Tiare stamp issued February 18, 1999. One of the largest families of dicotyledonous plants, Rubiaceae includes 600 genera and some 11,000 species. Members of Rubiaceae are extremely diverse, extending from the tropics to the arctic in the form of herbs, shrubs and trees. All representatives possess decussately arranged leaves and bisexual flowers that are radially symmetric with four to five sepals and three, four or five petals. Prized for their beauty and fragrance, Tiare flowers are often used to make leis. In some island groups, it is a custom for men to wear a Tiare flower bud over their ear when relaxing in the evening or going out to a party. Tiare blooms are also used to add fragrance to Monoi, a refined coconut oil skin and hair lotion, once associated with religious use. Image Size: 12.75 x 16 in. Overall Size: 15.25 x 19.75 in. Unframed. (B16266)
Herb Kawainui Kane (American, 1928 - 2011) "1800s Life in the Marshalls - Drummers & Dancers" Signed lower left. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the First Day Cover for the Republic of the Marshall Islands 29c Drummer and Dancers stamp issued September 15, 1993. The rhythmic beat of a drum guided the graceful motions of ancient Marshallese dancers. Often these undulating movements were performed while sitting or kneeling, drawing attention to the ornately-tattooed arms of the female dancers. The floral crown worn by one of the women suggests she was of a higher class than the others. Yet, all are dressed in traditional skirts fashioned from finely plaited pandanus leaf matting. Each woman also sports ear ornaments believed to have been created from the white inner bark of trees. This fascinating glimpse into the 19th-century Marshallese life is attributed to French artist Louis Choris. Image Size: 14.75 x 17.75 in. Overall Size: 18 x 21 in. Unframed. (B14476)
Herb Kawainui Kane (American, 1928 - 2011) "1800s Life in the Marshalls - Young Chiefs" Signed lower right. Original Mixed Media painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the First Day Cover for the Republic of the Marshall Islands 29c Young Chief stamp issued September 15, 1993. The art is an adaptation from sketches made in 1817 by Frenchman Louis Choris. They handsomely portray a member of the Marshall Islands' ruling class. A crown of flowers intertwine with plaited pandanus fibers indicates the high social status of the young man pictured. By the 19th century, the social structure of the Marshall Islands was highly organized. Each clan was led by a hereditary chief, and together the leaders were known as irooj. The rank of chief continues to be handed down from generation to generation, and today's irooj are not only held in high esteem, but are part of the present-day Marshallese parliament known as the Nitijelia. Image Size: 14.75 x 17.75 in. Overall Size: 18 x 21 in. Unframed. (B14475)
c. 1200-1600 AD. Medieval. Silver ring with circular hoop and a round bezel. The bezel bears incised decoration in the form of a two soldiers supporting a family crest over an eagle. Heraldry, or the use of an inherited coat of arms, was a means by which to display personal identity and familial relations. This tradition began c. 12th century AD in battlefield contexts were elitesneeded a symbol to display in order to be easily recognizable even when their faces were obscured by armour. By the 13th century AD this practice was adopted by nobles and knights who took immense pride in their family arms and colours. The heraldic ring was a key part of this personal branding as it allowed the owner to stamp their coat of arms on their correspondences. Fair condition. Wearable.Size: D: 18mm / US: 7 3/4 / UK: P 1/2; 4g; Provenance: From an old London collection formed in the 1980s;
c. 1200-1600 AD. Medieval. Bronze ring with circular hoop, gently flaring shoulders and an octagonal bezel. The bezel bears incised decoration in the form of a crown poised over a shield and surrounded by vegetal motifs and the shoulders bear vertical lines and vegetal motifs. Heraldry, or the use of an inherited coat of arms, was a means by which to display personal identity and familial relations. This tradition began c. 12th century AD in battlefield contexts were elitesneeded a symbol to display in order to be easily recognizable even when their faces were obscured by armour. By the 13th century AD this practice was adopted by nobles and knights who took immense pride in their family arms and colours. The heraldic ring was a key part of this personal branding as it allowed the owner to stamp their coat of arms on their correspondences. Fair condition. Wearable.Size: D: 19.84mm / US: 10 / UK: T 1/2; 9.4g; Provenance: From the private collection of a Central London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/European art market formed in the 1980s.
***Charles Johnson Payne (aka Snaffles - 1884-1967) - Two coloured lithographs - "The Grand National - The Canal Turn", signed in pencil, with blind stamp of twin Snaffle and inscribed in pencil "A Memory the Old Sergeant and Geoffrey Bennett", 12.5ins x 25ins, and "The Worst View in Europe - Oh Murther! The dhrink died out of me and the wrong side of Bechers", signed in pencil and with blind stamp of twin Snaffle, 9ins x 19.25ins, in ebonised frames and glazed
A Bebe Jumeau bisque socket head doll, with blue glass fixed eyes, open mouth with six top teeth, pierced ears, brown wig, jointed wooden limbs and composition body, Jumeau sticker label to back, red dress, brown leather shoes and drop earrings, 32 1/2" high, marked 1907 15, bearing Bebe Jumeau ink stamp to neck (Est. plus 21% premium inc. VAT)
A Tete Jumeau size 12 bisque socket head doll, with blue paperweight glass eyes, open mouth with six moulded top teeth, pierced ears, brown wig, jointed composition and wood body with Jumeau Paris stamp, red jacket with velvet trim, red velvet bonnet and red leather shoes, 28" high, marked 12 (Est. plus 21% premium inc. VAT)
A group of collectables, comprising brass and mother of pearl opera glasses, in suede purse, a small German / Swiss music box, playing two airs, No 10551, 12.5 by 8.3 by 6.2cm high, a small olive wood tray, a Turkish brass coffee pot with wicker handle, a travel set in crocodile skin case, of hair curling tongs, burner and flask, a Brazilian gass dish inset with butterfly wings, a Russian brass pendant, A Tunbridge Ware stamp box, two miniature cloisonne bird ornaments, and 'Ann Hathaway's Cottage' ornament, E. W. Bush Shakespearean Depot, Stratford-upon-Avon. (11)
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