When The Morning Stars...
Print / Album Cover Art (Reproduction on Cardboard) • Ben Shahn
Style & Movement
Social Realism / Modern American Expressionism
Medium & Technique
Lithography or offset printing on cardstock, originally created as a mixed media artwork
Creation Period
1959 (original artwork) / c. 1970s-1980s (album release)
Dimensions & Format
Square format, approximately 12 x 12 inches (standard LP record jacket)
Subject Description
A stylized, expressive anthropomorphic or leonine face surrounded by dense, energetic calligraphic linework, set against a vibrant yellow background with Hebrew lettering visible on the left side, illustrating themes from biblical texts.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good, showing minor surface wear, ring wear, and light glare on the glossy protective plastic sleeve or shrink wrap
Estimated Market Value
15 to 30 USD
Auction Estimate
10 to 20 USD
Provenance History
Issued as the cover art for the classical music LP recording of Bernstein's Chichester Psalms and Britten's Rejoice in the Lamb, performed by the Choir of King's College, Cambridge, released on the Argo record label
Art Historical Significance
Represents the intersection of mid-century American fine art and commercial packaging, utilizing Ben Shahn's iconic expressive style and Judaic themes to complement sacred choral music
Notable Features
Features Ben Shahn's signature in the lower right and credit information attributing the original 1959 artwork to the collection of Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Schulman
Condition Issues
Minor edge wear, light scuffing, and possible fading associated with vintage vinyl record storage
Conservation Recommendations
Store in a vertical position in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight; use a protective polyethylene outer sleeve