Harper’s August

Edward Penfield

1890-1907

Harper’s August by Edward Penfield, 1890-1907

Edward Penfield was a pioneer of the American poster movement, and this cover for Harper's Magazine captures the spirit of the 1890s perfectly. He portrays a stylish 'New Woman' in a nautical jacket featuring a patriotic flag patch, standing next to a gigantic green mailbox. The flat colors and simplified shapes show a clear Art Nouveau influence, likely inspired by Japanese woodblocks. The massive red typography announcing 'Harper's August' dominates the scene, showing how magazine covers used to be bold, collectible art pieces rather than just disposable reading material.

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