JOHN ORFE (AMERICAN, 20TH CENTURY) ORIGINAL AUTOMOTIVE RACING ILLUSTRATION, watercolor on paper, stylized depiction of an early racer in a cloud of dust, an early work for the artist, signed and dated lower edge. Unframed. Dated 1939. 16" x 14".
Catalogue Note: John Orfe was an influential American automotive and airline designer and concept artist who worked with several of the top manufacturers in the middle of the 20th century, including Ford, Chrysler, Volkswagon, and Boeing. Orfe also worked as an illustrator for many of the top automotive publications during the period, often creating covers and centerfolds. From 1959 to 1961, Orfe worked with the team charged with the task of re-designing the Lincoln Continental, which was on the brink of being discontinued. Ultimately, Orfe and the team were able to convince management of the need for a radical revision of the old model, which resulted in the iconic 1961 offering. The appearance on the open market of the present work represents a rare opportunity to own original art by a noted mid-century automotive design artist and illustrator.

Very good overall condition with minor abrasions, surface losses, and tears, mostly to edges.