Wonderful BILLY DeBECK Caricature of FRANK WILLARD - 1935

Billy DeBeck (1890-1942), the creator of Barney Google, was one of the greatest cartoonists of the 20th century. With wonderfully developed characters, an ear for language, and an incredible line, DeBeck’s lowbrow Barney became one of America’s favorite everyman. DeBeck was great friends with a fellow cartoonist who also had a lowbrow creation. Frank Willard, of Moon Mullins fame, became friends with DeBeck in 1915, and they remained close until the end of DeBeck’s life. Willard even lived for a while with the DeBecks in NYC, and assisted briefly on Barney Google. Even as he neared the end of his life in 1942, DeBeck asked Ferd Johnson to make sure and take care of his old friend.

I’m very pleased to offer a stunning caricature of Frank Willard by his old friend Billy DeBeck. Drawn in 1935, this detailed pencil drawing depicts Willard on the links, golf club in hand, getting ready to strike the ball. The piece was printed in Brian Walker's book, "Barney Google and Snuffy Smith", and came courtesy of Fred Lasswell. Measuring 16”x 9½”, this drawing is in solid Fine+ condition. There is some very slight sunning from a previous matting, but all else is quite nice. This is a wonderful association piece between two cartooning giants of the 20th century. $450.00 + 17.00 shipping.