JOHN ORFE (AMERICAN, 20TH CENTURY) ORIGINAL AUTOMOTIVE CONCEPT DRAWING, watercolor and charcoal / pastel on paper, stylized depiction of a sleek yellow convertible with elaborate exhaust, all against a black background, signed lower left. Unframed. Together with a copy of the newspaper spread in which this design was featured. Two pieces total. 1946. 10 1/4" x 16" sight, 15" x 20" OA.
Published: The Philadelphia Inquirer, 9/1/1946, pp. 8-9.
Catalogue Note: John Orfe was an influential American automotive and airline designer and concept artist who worked with several of the top manufacturers in the middle of the 20th century, including Ford, Chrysler, Volkswagen, and Boeing. Orfe also worked as an illustrator for many of the top automotive publications during the period, often creating covers and centerfolds. From 1959 to 1961, Orfe worked with the team charged with the task of re-designing the Lincoln Continental, which was on the brink of being discontinued. Ultimately, Orfe and the team were able to convince management of the need for a radical revision of the old model, which resulted in the iconic 1961 offering. The present drawing is an early example of the artist's work, completed not long after his return to civilian life at the conclusion of World War II. Here Orfe clearly demonstrates his unique aesthetic that is years ahead of its time. The appearance on the open market of the present work represents a rare opportunity to own original art by a noted mid-century automotive design artist.

Very good overall condition with minor discoloration. Mat with toning, now detached.