Shazam (Deluxe Edition) — Published Full Splash (Alternate Version) by Gary Frank

Original full splash illustration of Shazam by Gary Frank, published in Shazam! The Deluxe Edition as part of the book’s art extras section.

This powerful black-and-white splash is widely believed to be an alternate version of the final printed splash later used in the Shazam storyline. Frank’s rendering here features a more shadowed, ominous expression with the cowl obscuring the eyes — a detail that may have prompted him to revise the pose for the version ultimately used in the floppy issue.

Even though this artwork was not included in the original single-issue run, it was officially published in the Deluxe Edition hardcover, making it a fully published piece of original art. A striking example of Gary Frank’s meticulous linework, anatomy, and lightning effects, and a rare glimpse into his creative decision-making during the development of the series.

Purchased directly from SterlingClass (Gary Frank’s representative) in 2021.