Fascinating and extensive archive of pencil sketches, research notes, and reference studies attributed to celebrated illustrator Norman Mills Price (1877–1951), a Canadian-born artist active in New York and renowned for his historical adventure illustrations in "Liberty", "Cosmopolitan", and other leading periodicals of the early 20th century.
The group includes numerous loose sheets and sketchbook pages featuring subjects central to Price’s oeuvre: pirates, ships, sailors, Native Americans, soldiers, and historical figures rendered in dynamic studies of hands, feet, arms, legs, and expressive poses. Additional sheets depict 18th–19th century military uniforms, musketeers, men with tricorn hats, mounted soldiers, and detailed anatomical and costume studies—some dated in pencil to the 1770s–1800s (referring to the period of attire represented). Further subjects include cowboys, top-hatted gentlemen, arms and armor, cannons, and furniture designs, as well as architectural sketches labeled “Weimar,” “Edinburgh Castle,” and “Rothenburg,” testifying to the artist’s meticulous interest in period architecture and European settings.
Of particular importance are several sheets of handwritten notes referencing "The Sea Rogue’s Moon"—a 1928 "Liberty Magazine" story illustrated by Price—alongside a partial "Liberty Magazine" editorial envelope addressed to “Mr. Norman Price, 527 Riverside Drive, New York City,” annotated in pencil “sea rogues moon sketches.” Another envelope fragment reads “N. Price sketches sent to Americana Books + Gallery,” suggesting later consignment or dispersal of the artist’s studio material. Together, these documents provide compelling provenance linking the present group to Price’s professional work and personal correspondence during his active New York period.
Norman Mills Price, a member and later honorary president of the Society of Illustrators, was widely celebrated for his historically researched compositions, costume accuracy, and narrative depth. The present collection captures the full range of his working process—from anatomical studies and costume research to architectural and thematic concept sketches—offering an extraordinary window into the preparatory stages behind his celebrated adventure and historical illustrations.
A rare and significant body of original material likely originating from Price’s studio, with direct reference to a documented "Liberty Magazine" commission and evidence of his residence on Riverside Drive, New York City.
Assorted sizes up to 8" x 11"
