Ice Capades of 1951 (Souvenir Program)
Ephemera, souvenir program, commercial print • Joe De Mers (illustrator/cover artist)
Style & Movement
Mid-century Pin-up illustration; Americana
Medium & Technique
Lithography or offset printing on paper
Creation Period
1951
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 9 inches; Portrait format, saddle-stitched booklet
Subject Description
The cover features a classic pin-up style illustration of a young woman sitting in a red skating costume and white ice skates against a blue background. The composition is commercial and celebratory, typical of mid-century traveling entertainment promotional material.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; shows visible signs of handling and age
Estimated Market Value
$15 – $35 USD
Auction Estimate
$10 – $25 USD
Provenance History
Original price marked as 25 cents. Likely sold as a souvenir during the 1951 stadium tour of the 'Ice Capades'.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of mid-century commercial illustration and Americana. Joe De Mers was a prominent pin-up artist for Esquire and various advertising campaigns; this work showcases how pin-up aesthetics were integrated into mainstream family entertainment like the Ice Capades.
Notable Features
Features the signature of Joe De Mers on the right side of the illustration. Includes the 25-cent price point and 'Copyright 1950 - Ice Capades, Inc.' in small print.
Condition Issues
Visible edge wear, scuffing on the blue background ink, minor spine stress marks, and light creasing at the corners.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in an acid-free archival sleeve with a backing board. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent further fading of the blue pigment.