HOLY GRAIL ART

Arthur Adams, Whilce Portacio, and Scott Williams Longshot #3 Mojo 1st Issue and Iconic Image Used For Promo / Trading Cards Page 13 Original Art (Marvel Comics, 1985) 

He was not "A Man Without A Past" for long, as co-creators Ann Nocenti and Arthur Adams gave him a bang-up origin. On this key page we see Longshot snapping out of his origin flashback tortured by Mojo (From his 1st Appearance issue) seen on the previous panel where he repeats Mojo's line "...But for now I shall shut off your mind!" Longshot questions his existence and creation seen on the following panels before he Discovers what we came for, the diamonds! The bottom left panel we witness one of the most recognizable images of our hero from the acclaimed miniseries that was used for promo art including multiple trading cards throughout the years. This is a top piece of artwork by a top talent, the level of detail in the intricate linework is stunning. 

Created in ink over graphite and blue pencil on Bristol board with an image area of 10" x 15.5". The top edge and three corners are clipped, the board is slightly toned, and there is smudging and handling wear. In Excellent condition.

Arthur Adams X-Men: Blue #2 Magneto Cover Twice-Up Original Art (Marvel, 2016) 

Art Adams completed this memorable Large Art cover as an homage to X-Men #43 from 1968 featuring our full team of Mutants going up against a giant Magneto around the same time as X-Men Blue #1, as this cover, was also a promotional poster to advertise the new series launch. Interestingly enough, both issue #1 and #2 were launched the same month, only 2 weeks apart. It seems CBR and other promo sites took to this cover as much if not more than the #1 cover, with Magneto prominently featured for the first time in the series on this magnificent cover! Check out the CBR Article that featured this cover as the main promotional piece to launch the new series back in 2017!

Created in ink (...a lot of ink) over blue pencil and graphite on bright white oversized 14" x 21" Bristol board with an image area of 12" x 19". Signed and dated by Adams in the lower margin. In Excellent condition.

Ross Andru The Amazing Spider-Man #180 Classic Splash Finale Green Goblin Arc Page 31 Original Art (Marvel, 1978)

From the historic last page of issue 180 the return of Green Goblin arc and the farewell to Len Wein's run on ASM! Reminiscent of the iconic Amazing Spider-Man #50 cover, this superb finale splash features a huge symbolic image of Spider-Man as Peter Parker walks thoughtfully away from the reader. This was published in Amazing Spider-Man #180 (1978) and is the work of the classic Bronze Age Spider-Man art team of Ross Andru (pencils) and Mike Esposito (inks). It really captures the duality of the heroic Spidey and the typically down-on-his-luck Peter.

It’s a nice little happy ending, and as a capstone to his 30-issue run as writer/editor, Len orchestrates things so that the final page of the issue is a splash of Peter Parker walking off into the night with the spectral image of Spider-Man reflected in the skies above him. This was Len’s swansong on AMAZING SPIDER-MAN–like Ross would shortly, he was switching over to DC, where he’d work as both a writer and an editor, helping to bring some much-needed flavor of Marvel to the DC assignments he handled.

Mike Esposito Ink over Ross Andru graphite on Bristol board with an image area of 10" x 15". Slight toning, tape residue staining on the top, toning, discolored text paste-ups  with residue and oil staining; Good condition.

Sergio Aragonés Groo the Wanderer #34 Cover Featuring Groo, Sage, Rufferto and Mulch Original Art (Marvel, 1987)

After acquiring the humourous end semi-splash page above, I was able to get a fun, playful cover from the 1st series, which rarely come up! Groo's clueless affection for the Sage takes center stage, with Rufferto and Mulch in a quirky standoff below. Meanwhile, Arba and Dakarba's displeased expressions in the corner box add a humorous contrast to the chaos. In this funny and silly issue Abra and Dakabra need Groo's help to find the other half of the Great Wizard's amulet.

Ink over graphite and blue pencil on Bristol board with an image area of 9.75" x 15". Stat logo paste-up with original art embellishments. Signed and dated by Aragonés in the image area. In Excellent condition.

C. C. Beck Whiz Comics #7 Historic Earliest Captain Marvel Art Known To Exist Finale Page 11 Twice-Up Original Art (Fawcett, 1940)

Here is something you don't see every day, which hails as noted on the subject as historically significant being by all accounts the earliest existing art for Captain Marvel from Whiz Comics #7. Believe it or not Captain Marvel aka Shazam outsold Superman in the early days, selling millions of copies monthly in the 1940's. C. C. Beck has always been considered the consummate artist for Captain Marvel. His clean style was perfect for a hero that was almost like a big soft teddy bear who was, nevertheless, an intimidating force against evil. After re-reading the story, and being the pride of the era, Captain Marvel sure did have his moments of not being Mr. Nice guy and at times was actually quite brutal. "Panel 1- "Too bad, but you had it coming to you." In this case the story villain Rodney Stark crashes to a fiery explosive death. 

We must remember the times and uncertainties in the world as this was during World War II, a little over a year before Pearl Harbor and when the US entered the war. Enough about a history lesson, the interesting thing in this 11 page story, only 6 pages actually have Captain Marvel in costume, page 1 being one of them which is only a stat of the character, which leaves 5 pages of art, this being one of them. Furthermore, this is one of 2 pages that feature Shazam (Captain Marvel at this time), transforming back into reporter Billy Batson, while sharing the good news of Earth's rescue! Just an incredible art page featuring Captain Marvel (Shazam) and Billy Batson by their creator C.C. Beck from their birth year in 1940.

This piece of glorious Golden Age history was Created in ink over graphite on illustration board in twice-up scale with an image area of 13" x 18". Billy Batson and shadow in Panel Four are composed entirely of a stat paste-up. This toned page has production marks and notes, whiteout, staining, and glue residue. "Whiz Comics" stat paste-up is loosely attached and multiple text/ad paste-ups in the final panel are missing. In otherwise Very Good condition.

Alan Davis and Paul Neary Excalibur Special Edition #1 1st Appearance of Excalibur Issue & 1st Ever Warwolves Page Original Art (Marvel, 1987)

From the first appearance of the group Excalibur, this is the very page where the story arc's villains, the Warwolves are introduced for the first time. This one-shot issue was a hit, and #1 of the regular series came about half a year later, starting off a series that would run for a decade where the Warwolves would be the first story arc villains. 

Excalibur's original creative team, writer Chris Claremont and artist/co-writer Alan Davis, incorporated elements of two Marvel hottest properties, the X-Men and Captain Britain. On this page we see great images Rachel Summers aka Pheonix chained up by the X-Men, then freed by Kitty Pride. Xavier then tells Kitty she's been a naughty girl where we see the X-Men transform into the Warwolves for the first time inching closer to Kitty. An absolute stunning page, a rare occasion from this era where Davis illustrates the X-Men team only to transform them into the monstrous Warwolves!

Huge and iconic, this page is in ink on Marvel Bristol board with a Twice-Up image area of ​​12" x 17". In Excellent condition.

Dan DeCarlo Archie's Madhouse #1 Complete 1-Page Story "Last Laff" Original Art (Archie, 1959)

I thought it was only fitting to add an Archie piece to the collection and here's one from a memorable #1 issue, and a great gag featuring Jughead with Archie and Betty present as well. Based on the old advertisement which stated "they laughed when I sat down at the piano...", Jughead shows the other side of the jokes. 

Ink and screentone over graphite on Bristol board with an image area of 12.25" x 17.5". Toning, stat logo paste-up, pinhole in the top right, marginal notes, small tears along the right side edge, spot staining, with creasing, smudging, and edge/handling wear. In Very Good condition.

Steve Ditko The Amazing Spider-Man #25 Key Cover End Scene "Captured By J. Jonah Jameson" Historic 1st Appearance of Mary Jane Watson / 1st Spencer Smythe and Spider-Slayers Page 19 Original Art (Marvel, 1965)

Here's an incredibly key Steve Ditko Spider-Man Page for a number of reasons. First off, it's only fitting to start at the top with the incredibly intricate cover scene with Spidey tangled up in the grips of the Spider-Slayer! J. Jonah Jameson and Spencer Smythe (who makes his first appearance along with his Spider-Slayers in this issue) and after 25 issues, over 2 years in the making it seems that Jonah has finally caught Web-head, or has he? The second panel is one of the greatest Ditko gag panels you'll ever lay witness to, as Jonah is cleverly fooled once again by Peter who is pulling the strings above. Now let's get to the even larger first appearance on this very Page...

Featuring Mary Jane Watson on the lower middle panel making her 1st appearance on this page. She only appeared on one earlier panel in the story, which was the infamous flower panel, blocking her face by design. Judging by the reaction of Flash Thompson saying "Wow! Who's that chick?" it's pretty obvious that our new mystery girl, Miss Mary Jane Watson is drop dead gorgeous. 

Considering how important this single character becomes, this artwork is one of the most integral introductions from the classic Ditko Amazing Spider-Man run. Also considering the form of the introduction, it is obvious that this was by design. Indeed, Mary Jane would go on to appear alongside Peter Parker or Spider-Man in more issues of this title than any other character, becoming Spider-Man's main love interest and eventually his wife. The modern reality of Spider-Man does not exist without Mary Jane and at this point it's hard to even imagine Spider-Man's identity without her. 

"The most important character in Spider-Man after Peter Parker is Mary Jane Watson. It’s worth exploring how this was no inevitability. A close-reading from her first mentions and build-up in the Steve Ditko run and then the Lee-Romita era, will establish Mary Jane Watson, not simply as Spider-Man’s great love interest (which she is) but also as a vitally important character who had an effect on the whole continuity. Exploring step-by-step the changes in the plot, character dynamic, story, genre, tone that came with her introduction. How she altered and reshaped Peter Parker, and the wider supporting cast, and in doing so became the rare example of a character with a degree of autonomy that routinely nullified and overturned authorial intent." - From ElvingsMusings Article linked below.

Strong pages from this iconic run with no historic significance whatsoever are tough to come by, but they do come available from time to time. Something as unique and significant as this page, however, I found was likely a once-in-a lifetime acquisition opportunity. Steve Ditko Amazing Spider-Man pages are among the most coveted of all original comic art and pages featuring the 1st ever appearance of a Major character are practically museum worthy & virtually priceless at this point. 

Just a recap, you have virtually every character you'd want on one Page from this coveted issue where Ditko is given plot credits for the first time, which in and of itself is an important piece of Marvel history! Ditko draws Spidey in costume on the 2 top panels with Smythe and his Spider-Slayers making their first appearance, J. Jonah Jameson has finally caught Spidey (oh wait, he hasn't!), Peter Parker pulling the strings above, (MJ) Mary Jane Watson first appearance referencing Aunt May (leaving her house), and even Flash Thompson (Peter's rival) catching a glimpse of the new "it girl" Miss Watson!. We're only really missing Aunt May (though referenced, not drawn) and Betty Brant, but who cares about old news Betty as she's soon to be written off with MJ's intro and soon to be blonde bombshell named Gwen's intro 6 issues later! 

The twice-up scale treasure was created in ink over graphite on Bristol board with an image area of 12.5" x 18.5". and is in excellent condition.

Mike Dringenberg and Malcolm Jones III Sandman #7 "Listen" Key Page 2 Morpheus Original Art (DC, 1989)

Mike Dringenberg's style vividly captures the ethereal and somber mood of writer Neil Gaiman's story, bringing depth and emotion to the characters. This issue is a pivotal point in the Sandman saga, where Dringenberg melds the surreal with the Gothic, enhancing the dream-like quality of the narrative. Morpheus' profile is seen in the last panel. But what's most striking about this page is the pain and anguish felt throughout the world as Morpheus tells us at the top and bottom of the page, "Listen". A great tie-in page to the issue titled "Sound and Fury" with the final page to the issue brings peace and happiness as Morpheus regains his Ruby and once again tells us to "Listen". 

Ink over graphite on Bristol board with an image area of 10" x 15". The large, top right panel is a printed paste-up, all text are stat paste-ups, one is coming loose, there are blue production marks, small spots of soiling, corner bends, and edge wear. In Very Good condition.

Will Eisner The Spirit #29 Ellen Dolan Wedding Cover Original Art (Kitchen Sink Press, 1987)

Ellen Dolan is giving the squink-eye to the Spirit on this original classic wedding cover created for a reprint issue containing the story from the 4-11-48 newspaper Spirit section. The master draftsman signed his work in the lower right of the image area, dated 1986. The art for these Spirit Kitchen Sink covers are thought to be as good or better than Eisner's original work on the title from 40's and 50's.

Rendered in ink over graphite on Bristol board with an image area of 9" x 14". The main image area is lightly sunstruck from a previous framing. Replacement logo and header affixed directly to the art page. In Very Good condition.

Frank Frazetta- Robert E. Howard Lone Star Fictioneer #4 Back Cover, (Published Spring 1976) Conan Pen & Ink Peak Period Original Art (c. 1970's)

The legendary Frank Frazetta illustrated this image of one of his signature characters, Robert E. Howard's Conan, with the world famous barbarian holding a shield in one hand and a battle axe in the other. This work is circa 1970's and was published as the Back Cover to Robert E. Howard's Lone Star Fictioneer #4, Spring 1976. Two years ago, Conan celebrated the 90th Anniversary of his first appearance in a 1932 issue of the Weird Tales pulp magazine. Along the way, he's been illustrated by a significant number of top artists, with the legendary master of fantasy art, Frank Frazetta leading the way. It was Frazetta's masterful Conan cover paintings created for the Lancer line of paperback books starting in 1966 that exposed a new generation of fans to Howard's long-lost pulp stories. Not only did Frazetta establish the design of Conan for the new era, but he created a new way of depicting the overall fantasy genre that inspired so many other great artists along the way. Frazetta's cover paintings captured the attention of Marvel's Roy Thomas, who became a big fan of Howard's stories and brought Conan to Marvel Comics as a licensed property starting in 1970. Conan has gone on to appear in over 1,000 comic books published over the past 50+ years, as well as in some high profile movies and video games.

The original work of Frank Frazetta is some of the most desirable for any discerning collector, and many pieces are valued at six or even seven figures. His illustrations are not only considered the best in the genre of fantasy art, but in the history of illustration as a whole. Frazetta oils are spectacular, commanding some of the highest prices in the medium, but there are something truly special about his pen and ink drawings, which we're showcasing here. Signed by the artist himself, this drawing is a highlight of any collection, an original Frazetta Conan! Previously held in the collection of Frazetta's manager for years, Rob Pistella! A highly coveted original Frank Frazetta drawing, this piece by the artist is in Very Good condition. Signed on the lower right, c. 1970's during Frazetta’s peak period. The art has an image area of approximately 8" x 8" in a 20.5" x 18.5" frame.

Ron Frenz and Kevin Dzuban Marvel Team-Up Annual #6 Page 21 First New Mutants and Cloak & Dagger Meeting Spidey + X-Men 1st meeting Flashback Original Art (Marvel, 1983)

As I'm currently putting together my top Spider-Man artists, it dawned on me that Ron Frenz was most known for not only his run on Spider-Man in the 1980s, but his long tenure on Thor into the mid 1990's, so you'll see with this piece and the piece below, we have an earlier example and a later one not just with Thor, but with Spidey!

Great image of Spidey crawling on a Church wall in panel 1 but I especially love panel 3 with Frenz channeling the original X-Men team and Spidey reminiscing of their first meeting. The bottom panels are exquisite with the New mutants and Cloak and Dagger throughout. From the issue that partnered Spidey with the New Mutants and Cloak & Dagger for the first time. This also marks a very early New Mutants and Cloak & Dagger story, with the team's first appearance less than 6 months prior to this issue.

Ink over graphite on Bristol board with an image area of 10" x 15" and aside from overall paper aging and clipped margin corners, its condition is Very Good. 

Dave Gibbons Watchmen #3 Dr. Manhattan Interview and 1st Nite Owl / Silk Spectre Key Battle Page 13 Original Art With John Higgins Matching Color Guide (DC, 1986)

As both a 12-issue series and a graphic novel, the influence of Watchmen cannot be understated; the series became a pop culture touchstone that affected comics for decades after its initial release and inspired adaptations in multiple mediums. Watchmen is a masterwork of design with one of the series' central metaphors revolving around the intricate designs of watches themselves, and this page is no exception.

Dr. Manhattan (previously known as Dr. Jonathan Osterman) is getting grilled on a TV interview, as Dan Dreiberg(aka Nite Owl) and Laurie Juspeczyk (aka Silk Spectre) are getting jumped in an alley by would-be muggers, but the muggers end up getting a viscious superhero beatdown. This also marks the first Battle page from the series for both Nite Owl and Silk Spectre. The juxtaposition of the interview with a mugging is a subtle but effective metaphor for what is happening to Jon. This lot includes both the original art by Dave Gibbons and the original color guide by John Higgins, showcasing the impressive page in both black-and-white and color, to show the red, yellow and orange hues used to showcase the brutal fight. This is such a key scene overall to the acclaimed series, multiple articles reference this very page. Link below to check out the article we chose that highlights this page as it's favorite from the series!

Created by Dave Gibbons in ink over graphite on Bristol board with an image area of 10" x 15.75". The board is very toned, with whiteout art clean-ups. The page is accompanied by the production color guide created by John Higgins over Dave Gibbons linework onto 8.25" x 11.75" paper and hand-coloring with watercolors. There are handwritten color call-outs on the page. Both are in Good condition.

Klaus Janson Pencils and Inks Punisher #1 1st Ongoing Series Punisher vs Drug Dealer Half Splash Battle Page 15 (Marvel, 1987)

On this Klaus Janson page from the key issue Punisher #1 (1987), the Punisher lets loose on some dirtbag drug dealers who have been moving crack from South America to rock houses all over New York City. The large, central panel featuring the Punisher choking and electrocuting one of the drug dealers is especially impactful and illustrates in a single panel the way the Punisher operates in a darker world than most of the other Marvel heroes. Janson, the long-time finisher best known for his historic work with Frank Miller on Daredevil and Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, took on the roles of both penciller and inker here and the high quality results demonstrate that Janson is just as good with a pencil as he is with an ink brush.

Given the Punisher's high level of popularity in the 1990's and beyond, it's interesting to consider that it took 13 years following his 1974 introduction in Amazing Spider-Man #129 before the Punisher received his first on-going title following the success of the Punisher Limited Series in 1986. This Klaus Janson page comes from the very first issue of that on-going series! Both Janson and the Punisher received wide exposure from their respective roles in Frank Miller's historic run on Daredevil, so it was a logical pairing to have Janson be assigned to the character's first story arc.

Rendered in ink over graphite, the art has an image are of approximately 10" x 15", light smudges, whiteout corrections, overall in excellent condition.

Kelley Jones and John Beatty Batman #539 1st Batman vs The Undertaker Battle Page From His Memorable Run Page 19 Original Art (DC, 1997)

Visionary artist Kelley Jones provided pencils and fan-favorite John Beatty provided inks for this page from Batman #539 (1997) one of the best battle pages from the book, showing the Dark Knight in battle with an insane undertaker who bursts from a pile of bones and attacks Batman with a human leg bone! Jones' gothic take on Batman, which emphasized mood over realism with the character's flowing, pleated cape and extremely elongated ears, is perfectly captured on this page. Jones' Batman has been described as "otherworldly", which is an apt description.

Kelley Jones was a beacon of quality for comic book art during the 1990's, producing highly memorable work for various Batman projects as well as some of the highlights of the historic Neil Gaiman series, The Sandman.  Jones was offered The Sandman as an on-going assignment, but turned it down to work on what became the best-selling graphic novel Batman/Dracula: Red Rain. He later illustrated two sequels (our cover above) to that graphic novel and had a long run on the monthly Batman series. Jones was the main artist on the on-going Batman title from 1995 to 1998. The artist used a style which emphasized mood over realism, exaggerating many features of Batman's costume such as making his ears incredibly long and giving him an enormous cape draped over his body.

Produced in ink over graphite on Bristol board with an image area of 10" x 15". Slight toning. In Excellent condition.

Joe Jusko The Punisher War Journal #31 "The Kamchatkan Konspiracy" Memorable Ski Cover Original Art (Marvel, 1990)

Mixed media painting original art by renowned comic artist Joe Jusko, whose realistic painted fantasy, pin-up, and cover illustrations have graced countless comic book publications. Here we present you cover painting for "Punisher War Journal" Vol. 1 #31, published by Marvel in June 1991. Wonderfully detailed painting shows snowy scene with The Punisher flying through the air on skis, blasting attacker w/revolver as men fire upon him from pursuing snowmobile and other armed skiers give chase.   It almost seems a play on a James Bond spy film scene and is even more remarkable in person. 

With rich, vibrant colors and a smokey background, these characters come alive, thanks to Joe Jusko's awesome talent. This is truly a Marvel masterpiece, and we're honored to have in our collection. With this one, we now have 4 Punisher painted cover/portfolio plates including the Zeck / Zimelman Portfolio One plate 2, which later became a cover, the only Michael Golden Painted Punisher cover to Punisher War Journal 40 (also massive in size), the Stroman wraparound cover to Punisher Classic #1 from 1989 and now this one to complete the set!

Jusko has signed art at lower right and added "90" date. Back of board has had surface removed, but this does not affect art. Originally from the Jason Taulbee Collection. This massive piece has an image area of 18" x 25", and the art is in Excellent condition.

Gil Kane and Frank Giacoia The Amazing Spider-Man #101 Morbius 1st Appearance (Historic First Page In Costume as Vampire) Original Art (Marvel, 1971)

Not only is this page from Gil Kane's historic run on Amazing Spider-Man from 1971, this is also Morbius' First ever Page as the Living Vampire, as we see him transforming into his costume for the very first time on the iconic bottom panel. That last panel has also been used for numerous card art and next to the cover is the most recognizable image of Morbius from his first issue. We should also add Morbius is not on the opening splash page, making this his first true page as the Living Vampire!

Morbius' is seen throughout the page fleeing from the ship crew, as they've realized he's at fault for a dead crew member. What's even better on this page are Morbius' thoughts as he's realizing his strength, heightened senses and movements for the first time. He also flashes back from the night before, as a reader we're getting a better sense of his overwhelming guilt and confusion of what he's become... 

"Ah, but when it gets Dark...When it's night...A Night like last night...No! I must not think of that. The memories would drive me mad. It was just a dream. It had to be a bad dream. But-- It was not." - Morbius 3rd and 4th panel.

Then we see him get away, the crew make the fateful mistake of leaving him on board and staying the night on the ship. "Yes...One Last Sleep..." with the full moon upon us, the Living Vampire appears in costume for the first time!

Fun fact, from the first appearance side of things for Spidey's villains, and in this case more on the anti-hero side, there's really not too much that has surfaced. We know ASM #3, first Doc Ock exists, but until it surfaces we'll leave it out. But for now, what has surfacedI is ASM #6 (1st Lizard), ASM #9 (1st Electro), sorry no Green Goblin, or Kraven has surfaced.... So we skip all the way to ASM #41 (1st Rhino), then ASM #50 (1st Kingpin), then ASM #78 (1st Prowler, which we have the first birth Page of the character Hobie Brown from that issue), and then we jump to here, ASM #101 (our subject art), then always in comparison from this era would be ASM #129 (1st Punisher, which also exists). So really as far as key Spidey villain or anti-hero 1st appearances there's only 4 notable characters prior to this one that are known to exist, making it truly special.

Created in ink over graphite on Bristol board with an image area of 10" x 15". The page has editorial notes and light smudges, overall In Excellent condition.

Sam Kieth and Dwayne Turner Marvel Comics Presents #121 Page 5 Wolverine & Venom Seek Nightmare Original Art (Marvel, 1993)

I have to say one of the hardest voids to fill is a Marvel Comics Presents Sam Kieth cover and or interior for that matter, they just don't come up and when they do they tend to have a huge price tag attached. Rightfully so, as Sam's Wolverine is so distinct and so nostalgic from this era. Sam's larger than life and musculature physique compliments Venom so well on this page.  

Sam Keith and Turner combine to create this extraordinary page, featuring Wolverine and Venom teaming up to navigate the realm of Nightmare, featuring a vision of Wolverine's former lover Mariko. Kieth's distinctive, unique style shines through with his unmistakable take on the characters, a beautiful page from one of the most collected artists of the era. 

What I found most interesting in Kieth’s second to last issue from his incredible MCP run is he only did 10 issues of interior art on the Wolverine stories, which were only 8 pages each. Interesting fact, if it were from a normal size comic book with 22 pages it would make up less than 4 issues of Kieth art, which is another reason why there’s so little of it on the market. Ink over graphite, Image size 10" x 15" on twice up large 13x19 Marvel board. Art is in excellent condition. 

Jack Kirby Journey Into Mystery #84 Battle Page 10 Historic 1st Thor Meets Jane Panel (1st Jane Foster & 2nd Thor Issue) Rare Large Top Panel Original Art (Marvel, 1962)

Pages of this rarity, cultural importance, and graphic perfection almost defy description. Suffice it to say, only Jack "King" Kirby and his inker supreme, Dick Ayers, could create a page of such intensity and majesty -- and as a result, one would be hard pressed to find a better early battle page of Thor by King Kirby. Arguably this is the best of Thor’s first three battle page scenes, only earlier pages are of the stone men in the tail end of issue #83 and the plane attack a few pages earlier in issue #84, but this is the first time the Mighty Thor takes on an army! 

After further research, it was brought to our attention the top large panel is the largest interior panel from both issues #83 (Thor's 1st appearance) and #84 outside of the chapter title splash pages from both issues (two from issue 83). The large top panel is the equivalent of a near 1/2 splash if it was on standard size 11x17 bristol board. All we can think is Kirby wanted to make this battle page highly impactful and without question he was successful in his execution. Believe it or not, it's not until issue #97 over a year later where there's an equally large interior panel outside of the opening title splash from the Thor title. Making this page not only exceedingly rare, but even more special from Thor's earliest mythos art from The King himself!

The final panel and perhaps the most important, is actually Thor's first face to face encounter and first dialogue (as Thor and not Dr. Don Blake) with Jane Foster saying out loud, "They've captured Jane" and she replies "Don't listen to them, defeat them all!" 

The page is inked by Dick Ayers, one of Kirby's primary inking partners during the early years of the Marvel Silver Age. Twice-up large art, the art has an image area of approximately 12.5" X 18.5" and has some tape staining.

Andy Kubert and Mark Pennington X-Men #20 Page 14 Wolverine Claws Out "Snikr" Key Issue Return of Psylocke Original Art (Marvel, 1993)

Andy Kubert became a superstar in the early 1990s when he took over as the primary artist on X-Men after Jim Lee left Marvel to form Image Comics. His dynamic work kept the title in the #1 sales spot for years. This page from X-Men #20 (1993) features a great claws out Wolverine page as he slashes through a tree to take out his frustrations. Great dialogue between Logan and Jubilee discussing all the hardships they've recently endured including the loss of Mariko, Jean & Scott's baby and more. I especially love the lower middle panel where Logan's on to a scent, only to find it's Betsy in the shadows aka Psylocke, and "Snikr" (not snikt) his adamantium claws appear ready for battle! Speaking of Psylocke in her return issue, this infamous storyline from issues #20-23 tries to reveal that Psylocke has been with the team since Acts of Vengeance isn't the real Psylocke after we later discover she's switched bodies with an assassin code named named Revanche! 

SuperMegaMonkey.net outlines our page and early reveal below-

"There's a couple of hints sprinkled throughout the issue that, in hindsight, foreshadow the Revanche revelation: first, while talking to Jubilee outside, Wolverine smells Psylocke, but Jubilee finds that hard to believe, given the cold and the dress Psylocke was wearing."

The art has an image area of approximately 10"x 15". Signed and inscribed by Andy on the lower margin. Art is in excellent condition.

Joe Kubert Sgt Rock #326 "Future Kill Two" Classic Sci-Fi Cover Original Art (DC, 1979)

A stunning cover by the man that most agree is the single best war comic artist ever... Mr. Joe Kubert! In searching for the right Kubert Rock cover, it's simply not an easy task, but this one checked all the boxes. First off, it's quite rare for Kubert to draw women on his war related covers, even more rare on a Sgt Rock cover where he's front and center saving the damsel in distress. Second, a full figure Sgt Rock front and center on the cover isn't very common either and the one's that are seem to be in high demand. Third, and perhaps most interesting to me is the science fiction feel for this futuristic robot inspired cover! There you have it, simply one of the best Kubert Rock covers of the era!

Created in ink over graphite on DC/Sparta cover stock Bristol board with an image area of 10" x 15". The masthead text and DC Bullet are stat paste-ups. signed in the lower right of the image area. In Excellent condition.

Harvey Kurtzman Time Magazine "Cop and Radical" Published Illustration Original Art (Time/Life, 1972) 

Kurtzman not only created MAD in 1950, but his work is noted for its satire and parody of popular culture, social critique, and attention to detail. He was also a huge demonstrator of pushing the envelope using his cartoon skills to put messages across in the political circuit. This piece was Kurtzman's only Time Life artwork, in which the radical who was loosely based off a known activist at the time. Despite a "Kill The Pigs" button on her chest, she gets chummy with the cop, though they share distinctive differences, they put them aside during a time to promote peace and love. A beautiful piece showcasing Kurtzman's political satire at that time.

Grey wash and ink illustration on Bristol, with an approximate image area of 3.25" x 5.25", in Excellent condition. Matted to an overall size of 8.75" x 11.25". Comes with a copy of the printed article illustration page. Formerly part of the Kitchen Sink Collection.

Erik Larsen and Mike Machlan The Amazing Spider-Man #331 Cover Scene Splash Page 19 Punisher & Spider-Man Team-Up Original Art (Marvel, 1990)

Here was one at the top of my list for a while now, an Erik Larsen ASM Spidey page and teaming up with the Punisher was a huge bonus! On this page we have Spidey swinging & The Punisher (Frank Castle) stands atop a pile of destroyed robot parts as he joins our favorite webhead in pursuit of the world's largest stash of drugs at a U.S. Military Academy. A great splash & cover scene image of the duo just before one of the robots gets a shot in on the Punisher on this action-packed page by Image co-founder Erik Larsen. A rare offering, as pre-1991 Larsen originals are hard to find since a house fire destroyed all of the art still in his possession. 

Ink and screentone over graphite and blue pencil on Marvel Bristol board with an image area of 10" x 15.75". Signed by Larsen at the bottom right. Slight toning, pinholes in the margins, yellowing of the shading film, discolored page number paste-up and small spot stain at the bottom, with light smudging and handling wear; otherwise, in Excellent condition. 

Jim Lee & Art Thibert X-Men #7 Page 31 Wolverine Weapon X Story (Death of Dr. Cornelius) & Climactic End Page to Mutant Genesis Story Arc Original Art (Marvel, 1992)

Here is what I consider another Grail level page with the work of Jim Lee's X-Men Mutant Genesis saga, the shocking finale page as Dr. Abraham Cornelius from the Weapon X project attempts to kill Wolverine, but before he can Maverick saves the day and kills him first. Wolverine returns the favor, giving him the coveted C-Synthesizer before he disappears, the end. Jim packed in a lot of story on this 12 panel grid in the rain ending a memorable arc.

My overall goal with Jim Lee art of this era was to acquire a solid page from the Uncanny run, as well as his X-Men run. What better to have then a Wolverine mythos story page that ends the acclaimed Mutant Genesis arc. Please take note of Panel 2 with Wolvie claws out before we see "BLAM" with Maverick shooting the Weapon X doctor responsible for Wolvie's adamantium.

The 1991 relaunch of the X-Men title with a new #1 was an event of epic proportion with the first issue selling an estimated eight million copies, an all-time record for the industry and one that is likely to never be broken. This is an outstanding example of Lee's work on what was simply the most popular comic book run of all time, with each issue selling over one million copies. Lee left the title after #11 to start Image Comics and his Wildstorm Studio. 

The art has an image area of 10" x 15" and it is in Excellent condition and signed by Jim on the bottom left.

Jim Lee and Scott Williams Batman #619 1st Full Appearance of Hush In Costume (Tommy Elliot) Rare Batman vs Hush Battle Page 9 "Hush Chapter Twelve - The End" Original Art (DC, 2003)

Here was a tough feat, an interior page from Batman 619, and one of the only few Battle pages between Hush and Batman that have been publicly available not only from this issue but the series overall. I should add that's partly due to the fact that the previous couple of page issues we see Hush in more cameo appearances, this finale issue and scene is the only time Batman and Hush confront one another. After further research, this page along with the Jim Lee Batman 619 record breaking cover (Jim Lee public auction record for $504,0000) are the only 2 art pieces from this key finale issue ever offered at public auction! The only few others I've seen are on CAF galleries posted from years earlier and are held within private collections. 

Though we see Hush in cameo (torso up and only from behind) on one panel in #609, many look at #619 as Hush's true 1st appearance. Not only is #619 the reveal of the character as the villain, but is also the first Hush in costume issue, as recognized by Key Collector Comics. On the contrary, Batman #609 is recognized by many including Key Collector Comics as the 1st appearance of the character Tommy Elliot, who later becomes the villain. 

On this key page Hush newly revealed to be Thomas Elliot, an old friend of Bruce, explains to a stunned Dark Knight how he wanted his parents dead. James Gordon and Harvey Dent (formerly Two-Face) intervene in this chaotic scene from "Chapter Twelve The End" of the epic 12-issue "Hush" storyline that renewed interest in Batman in the early 2000's, and revered as one of the best modern story arc's of our time, care of writer Jeph Loeb and the fan-favorite art team of Lee/Williams. 

On the following page Hush is shot by Harvey Dent and falls into the Gotham river, never found again in this key issue, making this a rare Batman vs Hush Page, one of only a few from this key scene.

Crafted in ink over graphite on DC Bristol board with an image area of 10.5" x 15.75". Whiteout touch-ups and signed by Lee in the bottom margin. In Excellent condition.

Jim Lee and Scott Williams Batman Hush 2 Prelude "The Promise" Incredible DPS Title Pages 3-4 Featuring Batman's Heroes and Villains (DC, 2024)

Here is quite possibly one of, if not the most detailed DPS illustration I've witnessed from the all-star art team of Jim Lee and Scott Williams. Not to mention, this may be the most character driven Batman related published piece with over 20+ characters, especially Hush related that Jim has ever done. The only other Batman Hush related piece that comes to mind is the Batman 619 Gatefold covers, one for the heroes and the other cover for the villains, thus it wasn't one image, but two separate covers. We should also add the hero cover sold for a Jim Lee auction record of $500k+ in 2022!

In this case, previewing the Hush "The Promise", every hero and villain related to the upcoming story is featured here on this DPS! Also including a new villain named "Silence" (Upper right), and if you can't find the Clown Prince himself, it's only due to Hush stabbing his picture on the lower right. Look closely, the rogue gallery, including the heroes are all there with the exception of one villain from Hush Vol 1,  Ra's Al Ghul, but this time Talia is present. On this DPS we also get a clearer understanding that Hush is controlling the pawns on the board who are all all attached to a string, which gives us the feeling that he's pulling the strings in this case. Though Jim could've easily had used stat images from the previous pages or work, believe it or not,  this is all hand drawn art by both Jim and Scott. 

The other interesting thing is Hush's new costume, revealed here for the first time. Hush's look is more sleek, more refined then before, with the old withered trench coat and bandages around him more tight and calculated as the mask. He also has an "H" around the belt, a fitted latex/rubber suit with an over the strap ammunition holder, ready for battle. There you have it, the pages that ended Batman Hush Volume 1, to the pages that start the much anticipated Volume 2 of Batman Hush, 'The Promise'.

This incredible DPS is on two boards (22x34) taped together from the back, signed by the art team of Jim Lee and Scott Williams in the lower margin and is in excellent condition. 

Rob Liefeld and Lary Stucker Cable #71 Half Splash Page 15 Liefeld's Grand Return To Cable & First Pencils On Title Original Art (Marvel, 1999)

This issue marked Liefeld's grand return to Cable and his first pencils on Title! On this action-packed Rob Liefeld page from Cable #71, the popular creator of Cable and Domino (and Deadpool, of course) depicts his characters in an action-packed rescue scene. Ahab, the leader of the mutant-tracking Hounds from the grim "Days of Future Past" future, is holding Cannonball hostage. Cable, Domino and Warpath are part of a rescue team. In the large opening panel, we have a full-figure image of Domino in action taking on the Hounds, giving one a swift kick to the head. The second panel features Cable and Ahab. In the remaining panels, Cable notes the entrance of Domino and Warpath while Ahab comments that they have just made it easy for him by coming to his domicile. Then Domino shouts out orders when Warpath stops one of the Hounds from attacking her. Then Warpath appears to prepare to crush the head of one of the Hounds, telling her it is better for her than to live the life of a mutant tracker.

The art has an image area of approximately 10" x 15", and is signed by Rob Liefeld in the bottom margin. Very Small fold/tear in the upper right corner, overall in excellent condition.

Ron Lim Silver Surfer #34 Page 21 Thanos Resurrection Issue (Thanos First Dialogue & First Silver Surfer Encounter Page) Original Art (Marvel, 1990)

Silver Surfer believes this was all a dream, and talks to himself about what dreams mean and his existence. He hears a voice suggesting that his dream was a premonition. The nightmare has just begun…  In this key page by Ron Lim with Surfer in every panel, and great dialogue by Starlin, he questions whether this was all a dream or something more? He begins to reflect on his life and existence as a human underneath the silver shell. “So The question still remains… What was that dream all about?” Surfer says. The last panel a voice says “Perhaps it was a Premonition.” Surfer responds “Who?” And looks to see who it is. The last panel of this page is the first dialogue of Thanos in physical form to Surfer, and this premonition would start his quest for the infinity stones and wiping out half the population of the universe.  

When looking for a Lim / Starlin Surfer page, there are so few pages from this key issue #34, so much so I’ve literally counted the number on my hand in CAF galleries and auction results. Lim’s page layout and surfer images are great, especially of him in the middle on his board. Not to mention Starlin’s dialogue and Surfer’s reflection of himself, and the bottom panel importance of Thanos’ first dialogue in physical form. A Truly historic grail page reintroducing Thanos and the start of the Infinity Gauntlet Starlin/Lim story arc! 

Ron Lim and John Beatty Thanos Quest #1 Thanos & The In-Betweener (The Soul Gem) Page 11 Original Art (Marvel, 1990) 

I'll attempt to preface the next pages (including this one), as I set out to complete the unthinkable, a page from each of the six scenes with each elder and Thanos to complete the gauntlet. If you would've told me this feat was possible a few years back, I would've said no way seeing these pages were locked up primarily with one collector... Until, the unthinkable happened and that collector decided to auction nearly the whole 2 issue story over a 2 year period. And here you have it, the following pages are a scene from each elder to acquire each gem for Thanos to complete the Infinity Gauntlet!

On this page Thanos visits the prison of the In-Betweener, who plans to deceive the Mad Titan to gain his freedom... little does the In-Betweener realize it is he who is being deceived, as Thanos only seeks the Soul Gem, his first target in his quest for the Infinity Stones. A page from the first of a two-issue series which sets up the epic Infinity Gauntlet series. 

Ink over graphite on oversized Marvel Bristol board with an image area of 10.25" x 15.25". Slight toning, discolored tape registration marks in the margins, blue pencil editorial notes and paste-up/whiteout corrections, with light smudging and edge/handling wear. In Very Good condition.

Ron Lim and John Beatty The Thanos Quest #1 Thanos and The Gardener (The Time Gem) Page 41 Original Art (Marvel, 1990)

Ron Lim (pencils) and John Beatty (inks) collaborated on this 'Twice-up' page from Thanos Quest #1 (1990). Thanos has gone on a quest to obtain six Infinity Gems that together will give him the power to impress his beloved personification of death by murdering 50% of all livings beings in the universe. On this page he visits the cosmic Elder of the Universe known as the Gardener, who is in possession of one of the six gems called the Time Gem. Thanos claims that his goals require the Gardener to turn over the Time Gem. The Gardener, while knowing he is outpowered because Thanos already has two of the Infinity Gems in his possession, nonetheless insists on putting up a fight over the gem. Later in the same scene, Thanos amplifies the power of the Time Gem using the Soul Gem, and it immediately ages the Gardener hundreds of years at once, killing the seemingly immortal being and adding the Time Gem to his Infinity Gauntlet. Great back and forth composition of Thanos and the Elder The Gardener from Lim on this page from the first of a two-issue series which sets up the epic Infinity Gauntlet series. 

Ink over graphite on oversized Marvel Bristol board with an image area of 11.75" x 17.75". Slight toning, discolored tape registration marks in the margins, blue pencil editorial notes in the top margin, with light smudging/handling wear. In Excellent condition.

Ron Lim Thanos Quest #2 Key Page 18 "The Baby" Thanos and The Collector Ideal Large Thanos Image Original Art (Marvel, 1990)

This key 'Twice-up' (large art) page is courtesy of Ron Lim (pencils) and John Beatty (inks) and was published in Thanos Quest #2 (1990). While collecting the Infinity Gems to create his all-powerful Infinity Gauntlet, Thanos visits the owner of the Reality Gem, the the Elder of the Universe known as the Collector and takes possession of the most powerful of the gems as it can control all reality. The Collector believes that the gem is a worthless trinket. Thanos explains that a collector of trivia would lack the imagination to understand the potential of such a tool. (Clearly Thanos hasn't met many comic book collectors). Lim and Beatty did an outstanding job on the intimidating image of Thanos in the bottom tier of the page.

As hundreds of millions of Marvel Cinematic Universe fans across the globe know, Thanos goes on a quest to reunite six powerful 'Infinity Gems' (called 'Infinity Stones' in the MCU) that were formed at the dawn of creation and are now scattered throughout the universe. When brought together the Gems form the 'Infinity Gauntlet', the most powerful weapon in the universe. In the comic books the story of the quest was told in the two-part 1990 mini-series Thanos Quest written by Thanos creator Jim Starlin and illustrated by Ron Lim, Starlin's primary artistic collaborator on his second 'Thanos Saga' that would go on to include the epic Infinity Gauntlet series and its sequels.

This large art has an image area of approximately 11.75" x 17.75", light smudges and artist notes along the border. 

Infinity Gauntlet #6 Page 37 (Scarecrow Half Splash Featured In Endgame Opening Scene)

In the first of these four pages we see the iconic scarecrow armor image, signifying Thanos’ retiring from his old Mad Titan life to being a simple farmer, which was always his end goal once he completed his task at hand. But in this case, different from the movie, he fails the task at hand to wipe out half of existence. The scarecrow image may also have other deeper meanings.  

From Jesse Schnedeen Blog Discussing Avengers 4 Thanos’ Scarecrow Image- T'he Thanos-Crow Symbolism' 

“The shot of Thanos' armor forming a bizarre scarecrow may well be the most striking image in the Avengers Endgame trailer. On the surface, this "Thanos-crow" symbolizes the fact that the Mad Titan has left his old life behind. He no longer wants to be the feared tyrant who traveled from world to world and murdered billions. He craves whatever sort of peace and contentment he can find after having sacrificed his own children for his cause. That said, it's interesting to think about what this Thanos-crow might symbolize on a deeper level. Scarecrows are tools used to ward off birds and prevent crops from being devoured. Basically, Thanos is cultivating life on his farm and doing what he can to protect it from predators. That's the exact opposite of what he was attempting to do in Infinity War. Is the Thanos-crow a sign that Thanos has a newfound respect for the preciousness and fragility of life? Is the scourge of the MCU evolving into a defender instead? 

Thanos the Hero- Few would attempt to describe the Thanos of the comics as a hero, but he has experienced some pretty dramatic moral shifts over the decades. Going back to Infinity Gauntlet, that story marked a major shift for the character as he stepped away from villainy and became a more benevolent force in the universe (for a while, anyway). Thanos even allied himself with Adam Warlock and the Infinity Watch, helping them safeguard the Infinity Stones and ensure that no one else could assemble the Infinity Gauntlet and wield unchecked power.”  

This opening “Farmer Thanos” half splash infamous “Scarecrow” page is not only an iconic image from Avengers Endgame opening scene in which Thor beheads Thanos, but also has much deeper meanings behind the image, which makes this original art page by Ron Lim extra special. 

Infinity Gauntlet #6 Page 39 (Thanos Reflection of Power)

Another magnificent page with Pip The Troll and Gamora questioning Warlock why they’re leaving the Mad Titan on this remote planet without being punished. Warlock explains essentially this is how the universe is to be “...Without Thanos, the picture is incomplete.” In the last panel, Thanos looks out to the sky seeing his visitors leave and reflects on his past follies... 

“Power. Such an ephemeral commodity, hard to gain, easy to lose. And I once thought I understood it. What vanity.” These are remarkable reflective words coming from the former Mad Titan, as he questions his life work, accomplishments and most notably his recent failures. 

Joe Madureira and John Dell The Uncanny X-Men #336 Double Page Spread 5-6 Apocalypse Original Art (Marvel, 1996)

Here's a tough one to find , a Joe Mad X-Men page from his run in the mid- 90's! Apocalypse joins the Watcher in observing the chaos erupting in New York City during the coming of Onslaught! An epic double-pager from Phase 2 of the "Onslaught" event storyline, which led into "Heroes Reborn". 

Ink over graphite on two conjoined Marvel Bristol boards with a combined image area of 20.25" x 15.75". Held together by tape on the back tape on the top edge, marginal notes, whiteout touch-ups, with light handling wear. Signed by Madureira in the bottom image area and in Excellent condition.

Todd McFarlane and Fred Fredericks The Incredible Hulk #332 Intelligent Gray Hulk (Bruce Banner) vs Green Hulk (Rick Jones) Plus The Leader Battle Page 20 Original Art (Marvel, 1987)

Todd McFarlane was in the early days of his now legendary tenure at Marvel when he illustrated this action-packed page from Incredible Hulk #332 (1987) featuring the Bruce Banner Intelligent Gray Hulk in only his 2nd appearance battling the Rick Jones Green Hulk. Also appearing here is the Hulk's #1 enemy, the Leader (Samuel Sterns), shown in his non-Gamma irradiated form. The artwork is packed with extensive detail and features a great final panel with the two Hulks engaged in fisticuffs.

McFarlane had taken over as the penciler on Incredible Hulk just two issues previously, #330 and writer Peter David had just begun his incredible 12-year run in #331. Rick Jones of course made his debut way back in Incredible Hulk #1 (1962) as the teenager who caused the incident that led to Bruce Banner being exposed to gamma radiation and becoming the Hulk. 25 years later, Jones was turned into a new version of the Hulk that is shown in this scene. McFarlane is inked here by Fred Fredericks, a veteran artist at the time known for work on the comic strips Mandrake the Magician and The Phantom.

McFarlane would continue to evolve his style during his year and a half on Incredible Hulk. This led to the young artist taking over Amazing Spider-Man, where he would make comic book history as one of the most innovative and beloved talents of his generation.

Early McFarlane art created in ink over graphite and blue pencil on Bristol board with an image area of 10" x 15". Slight toning, trimmed top edge, text paste-ups, tape and abrasions on the top and bottom edges, ink fading, with light staining and handling wear. Signed by Fredericks in the bottom margin and in Very Good condition.

Todd McFarlane Spider-Man #7 Twice-Up Title Splash (Ultra Rare DPS) Pages 2-3 Spider-Man, Ghost Rider & Hobgoblin "Masques Part 2" Original Art (Marvel, 1991)

Rarest of the rare for those in the know, a Large Art McSpidey double-page title splash from his Acclaimed run featuring Spidey, Hobgoblin, and Ghost Rider (Dan Ketch)! If these characters were just standing around talking, it would be cool, but leave it to McFarlane to have the Spirit of Vengeance busting in on his Hell Cycle, fire and debris flying in all directions -- and Spidey just wondering "Is the whole world going nuts!?" With the pencil in the hand of the Todd-father, nuts is the norm! 

Now on to the rarity, Twice-up pages from this series are a rarity, and twice-up Double page splashes from the run are well, pretty darn near unattainable! In addition, there are just a handful of Spider-Man Double Page splashes in existence as McFarlane hardly ever did two page spreads. Out of dozen or so that do exist, approximately six of them feature images of Spider-Man! Of those dozen DPS', 2 we can remove as they're not true full Double Page Splashes. Believe it or not only 3 of the remainder 10 full title double page Splashes have Spidey in plain view (front facing, without his back turned). The first being the debut issue #1, this issue, #7, and his last issue #16, which he's small and far behind Juggernaut, making this one arguably the best DPS next to issue #1. To put it in perspective, this Spider-Man DPS is far more rare than even his acclaimed covers, arguably being more dynamic and larger in scale. Not to mention, as you can see below with the next page, this is undoubtedly one of my all time favorite McSpidey issues!  

Ink over blue pencil on two twice-up Marvel Bristol boards with a combined image area of 23" x 18" on large 20" x 25" board. Held together by tape on the back, with pinholes at the top, and light handling wear. Signed by McFarlane in the lower right image area, and in Excellent condition.

Dave McKean A1 #1 Mister X Story Title Page 1 Neil Gaiman Story Large Art (Atomeka Press, 1989)

Neil Gaiman and Dave McKean produced the story "Heartsprings & Watchstops", which featured Mister X (originally created by Dean Motter). Here is an incredible title page splash by Mckean to the short story done by Gaiman. 

Produced in oil on Bristol board with an oversized image area of 16" x 25". The text is created with stats affixed to a clear acetate overlay. A Highbrow piece in our collection, in Excellent condition.
Originally From the Darren Shan Collection

Mike Mignola A Year of Monsters Sketchbook Cover Hellboy & Villains Original Art (Emerald City, 2013)

Here is one of Mignola’s most memorable and desirable sketchbook covers ever, which says a lot! The Year of Monsters in 2012 was a major event for Dark Horse and Mignola, which brought him back to doing a series of covers featuring characters created by Mignola pitted against a famous monster. These series of variant cover comics are now some of the most desirable of the era and command premium prices in the marketplace. To commemorate the year of monsters in January 2013, Mignola created this memorable cover and sketchbook showcasing all 12 variant covers in their original in colored art form. The sketchbook if you can find it, will run north of $200+, perhaps more depending on condition, making it one of Mignola’s most desirable Hellboy books in the marketplace. 

From Hellboy Wiki- 

“After Hellboy: The Fury concluded, it was announced that Mike Mignola would return as artist to the ongoing Hellboy stories in Hellboy in Hell. However, this workload would mean he would no longer be able to do as many covers as he had in the past. Aside from the covers for Hellboy in Hell or other Hellboy comics, Mike Mignola would no longer be doing any covers for singles. As a farewell to covers, the "Year of Monsters" cover variants were created, with one cover released for every month of the year 2012. These variants feature characters created by Mignola pitted against a famous monster of some sort. The covers have no relation to the story contained within the issue. The following year, 2013, Mignola's convention sketchbook, A Year of Monsters, highlighted his uncolored art from the series of variant covers.”

The cover art is spectacular, starting with the title, which is all drawn art, a rarity for a Mignola cover piece. A full figure Hellboy is front and center surrounded by some of Mignola’s most recognizable monsters, with Frankenstein, a Vampire and Death, and of course his trademark of bats surrounding! An incredible Mignola work of art showcasing his “Year of Monsters” in one memorable cover image. Rendered in pen and ink on 9x12 board in excellent condition, signed and dated by Mignola in the lower right center. Note- The scan was done with the mylar in place and shows a plastic line along the "M" and down the page, will attempt to get a better scan soon!