The Golden Lion
Print, specifically a lithograph on paper • Bruce Bomburger (1918–2011)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century American Illustration / Narrative Realism
Medium & Technique
Color lithography with ink on heavy paper; features flat color planes and detailed line work characteristic of 20th-century commercial illustration.
Creation Period
Circa 1970s-1980s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 30 inches (framed); Landscape format
Subject Description
A charming street scene depicting the facade of 'The Golden Lion' Ind Coope pub. The composition features figures in mid-century attire: a man reading a newspaper, a woman seated at an outdoor table, and a man standing in the doorway. A Dalmatian sits on the sidewalk, adding to the genre scene atmosphere. The architecture shows Victorian-style leaded glass and ornate masonry.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the print appears bright with little to no visible fading or foxing.
Estimated Market Value
$300 - $600 USD
Auction Estimate
$200 - $450 USD
Provenance History
Acquired via an Art Gallery; likely part of a limited edition series produced for the commercial art market during the artist's later career.
Art Historical Significance
Bomburger was a prolific American illustrator known for his work with Saturday Evening Post and Life Magazine. This piece represents his transition from commercial advertising to fine art lithography, capturing nostalgic European and urban atmosphere with the technical precision of a master illustrator.
Notable Features
Hand-signed by the artist in the lower right margin; marked 'A/P' (Artist's Proof) in the lower left, indicating it was part of a select group of prints outside the standard numbered edition.
Condition Issues
Minor rippling of the paper visible near the matting; potential acidity from the non-archival original matting (linen texture) which may lead to yellowing over time.
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend reframing with acid-free archival matting and UV-protective glazing to prevent ink fading. Monitor for humidity to prevent further paper cockling.
Collector Notes
Art Gallery. Artist is Bruce Bomburger