The Waltz You Saved For Me

Print/Graphic Ephemera (Sheet Music)Published by Leo Feist, Inc. (New York); cover design likely by an in-house studio illustrator

The Waltz You Saved For Me

Style & Movement

Early Art Deco / Jazz Age Commercial Graphic Design

Medium & Technique

Multi-color lithography or offset lithography on paper

Creation Period

circa 1930

Dimensions & Format

Approximately 9 x 12 inches; Vertical Portrait format

Subject Description

A portrait of bandleader Wayne King in a suit with arms crossed, set against a stylized sequence of three dark silhouettes of his profile, suggesting movement or rhythm. The text includes credits for lyricist Gus Kahn and composers Wayne King and Emil Flindt.

Condition & Value Assessment

Condition Assessment

Fair to Good; showing signs of age-appropriate wear and handling

Estimated Market Value

$10.00 - $25.00 USD

Auction Estimate

$5.00 - $15.00 USD

Provenance History

Likely purchased from a music retailer in the 1930s (note the 'Leo Feist New York' stamp); held in private collection

Art Historical Significance

Representing the golden age of American sheet music, this piece documents the cross-promotion of celebrities (Wayne King, 'The Waltz King') and popular song publishing in the pre-WWII era.

Notable Features

Features the Feist 'Nu-Style' multi-part edition seal and a distinctive Art Deco silhouette background motif characteristic of the 1930s 'sweet jazz' aesthetic.

Condition Issues

Visible edge wear, corner bumping, marginal creases, minor paper discoloration (browning or foxing), and a noticeable vertical fold or surface scuff mark on the right side.

Conservation Recommendations

Store in an acid-free, archival-quality sleeve with a backing board. Keep away from direct sunlight and high humidity to prevent further acidification and fading.

Identified on 3/12/2026