Backstage Bunnies (Playboy Bunnies Playing Cards)
Original drawing on paper, likely for magazine illustration • LeRoy Neiman (American, 1921–2012)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Illustration / Expressionist Figurative Art
Medium & Technique
Ink, felt-tip pen, and watercolor or wash on paper. The technique uses Neiman's signature fluid, rapid 'on-the-spot' sketching style with selective pops of vibrant color.
Creation Period
1963
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches (sight); Landscape format
Subject Description
The drawing depicts three Playboy Bunnies in a candid moment backstage. Two are seated around a small table playing cards, while a third leans over to watch. It captures the mid-century glamour and casual 'behind-the-scenes' atmosphere of the Playboy Clubs that Neiman frequently documented.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The paper exhibits some mild toning/yellowing consistent with its age and the type of paper often used by illustrators in the 1960s. The pigments appear stable.
Estimated Market Value
$5,000 - $8,000
Auction Estimate
$4,000 - $6,000
Provenance History
The piece bears a clear signature and date 'LeRoy Neiman '63'. Likely gifted or sold through a gallery following its potential use in Playboy magazine, where Neiman was the resident artist for decades.
Art Historical Significance
This is a quintessential example of Neiman’s early period when he served as Playboy Magazine's official artist-correspondent. It represents the intersection of fine art and comercial illustration, capturing a specific American cultural subculture of the 1960s. Early original sketches of Bunny themes are highly sought after by collectors of both Neiman and Playboy memorabilia.
Notable Features
Distinctive fluid calligraphy-style outline; presence of the iconic Bunny accessories (ears and tail); prominent and authentic signature and date in the bottom right corner; energetic, gestural draftsmanship characteristic of Neiman's best illustrative work.
Condition Issues
Visible yellowing/oxidation of the paper substrate; possible minor fading to the watercolor washes due to light exposure; slight rippling of the paper at the edges under the mat.
Conservation Recommendations
It is recommended to reframed using archival, acid-free museum-grade matting and UV-protective glazing to prevent further paper degradation and color fading. Keep away from direct sunlight and high humidity.