Season’s Greetings. Peace on Earth. New Canaan, 1946.

SZYK, Arthur. Season’s Greetings – Peace on Earth. Signed “A.S.”. (New Canaan, 1946). Watercolor and gouache on paper. Sheet size: 6 7/8″ x 5 1/2″.  Image size: 5″ x 4 1/4″. Very Good condition.

This greeting card image combines Szyk’s decorative style with his strong and abiding sense of American patriotism as he weaves together traditional Christmas imagery with a message of national triumph. The emblem of the United States, an eagle with wings outstretched, sits perched atop the portion of the inscription that reads: “Peace on Earth.” On his chest, he proudly displays the motif of the American flag, which reappears at the bottom of the image. A ribbon flutters behind the eagle, proclaiming “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.” Intertwining the famous words from The Declaration of Independence with sprigs of holly and three bright candlesticks, Szyk deftly infuses his Christmas greeting with a sense of national importance. Candles whose flames glow with the American flag’s tricolored brilliance emphasize this point. Blue stars sprinkled across a fluffy cloud background abut the candlestick holder’s hard metallic flowers, juxtaposing delicacy and strength. The entire composition is suffused with warm pinks and yellows as well as cool blues and grays which harmonize the disparate compositional elements and create a rich, cohesive image. Szyk’s beautiful calligraphic script hovers above, proclaiming “Season’s Greetings,” and confirming through the imagery below goodwill towards his neighbor and his country.

Provenance: Alexandra Szyk Bracie, daughter of Arthur Szyk.

Exhibition History: Wilshire Blvd Temple, Los Angeles, CA, May 17–October 31, 1991.