Image Dimensions: 7 5/8 x 15 1/2 in (19.3 x 39.5 cm)
Framed Dimensions: 13 3/8 x 21 1/4 in (34 x 54 cm)

Provenance and Authentication:
According to the Letter of Authenticity (LOA) and Certificate of Authenticity (COA) provided by the consignor, this collectible was subjected to a forensic examination. The accompanying documentation states that the signatures were evaluated with reference to multiple characteristics, including ink deposition, material and aging characteristics, stylistic consistency, and historical context. Based on the examination described in these documents, the authentication provider concluded that the findings were consistent with the attributed signatures. The LOA and COA provided by the consignor accompany the lot.

A William Steig-signed kite drawing, executed in expressive black line with transparent washes of color. Three imaginative kites animate the composition: a large yellow butterfly, a vivid red monster-like face, and a smaller whimsical creature at upper left. Their slender strings sweep diagonally across a pale blue field, lending the scene a lively sense of movement. Steig's distinctive "W. Steig" signature appears at lower left.

William Steig was a major figure in 20th-century American cartooning and children's illustration. A longtime contributor to The New Yorker, he later created an influential body of children's literature distinguished by economical drawing, wit, fantasy, and memorable characterization. Books including Sylvester and the Magic Pebble, Doctor De Soto, and Shrek! established his enduring place in American visual and literary culture.

The present work reflects Steig's characteristic ability to transform familiar objects into imaginative personalities. Rather than conventional kites, the airborne forms become a butterfly, a comic monster, and an eccentric creature, creating a complete narrative image from a simple recreational subject. Its multiple figures, restrained but varied palette, expansive horizontal composition, and prominent signature give the drawing particularly appealing display qualities.

Combining Steig's autograph with a fully developed and colorful imaginative composition, the work offers strong appeal to collectors of American illustration, children's literature, classic cartooning, and The New Yorker tradition.