Popeye the Sailor: Baseball Montage
Limited Edition Print on paper • Myron Waldman (American, 1908–2006); published by King Features Syndicate
Style & Movement
Golden Age Animation / Cartoon Realism
Medium & Technique
Serigraph or high-quality lithograph from original animation-style drawings, featuring ink outlines and flat color fills characteristic of cel animation.
Creation Period
Circa 1990s (based on the Myron Waldman signing period for King Features Syndicate)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 20 inches (framed); Landscape format
Subject Description
A central figure of Popeye in a baseball uniform holding a bat, surrounded by four smaller vignettes showing him in various baseball actions: catching, pitching, batting, and fielding. The composition includes his iconic pipe, anchor tattoo, and squinting expression.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The print appears well-preserved within the frame, showing vibrant colors and crisp line work.
Estimated Market Value
$300 - $600 USD (Retail)
Auction Estimate
$150 - $350 USD
Provenance History
Original estate or gallery sale; bears official 'King Features Syndicate' embossed seal and is hand-signed and numbered (387/500) by the artist Myron Waldman.
Art Historical Significance
Myron Waldman was a legendary animator for Fleischer Studios and Famous Studios, responsible for defining the look of Popeye, Betty Boop, and Superman. This piece is significant as it represents the legacy of 20th-century American animation through the hand of one of its primary masters.
Notable Features
Includes a hand-signature by Myron Waldman, a 'King Features Syndicate' embossed authenticity seal, and a limited edition numbering of 387/500.
Condition Issues
Minor potential for light acid-toning on the paper if non-archival materials were used in the original framing; slight glare on the glass indicates standard rather than museum-grade glazing.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the artwork is kept out of direct sunlight to prevent UV fading of the pigments. Consider reframing with acid-free matting and UV-protective glass to ensure long-term preservation.