Wonderful DAVID LEVINE Caricature of Prime Minister INDIRA GANDHI - 1966

David Levine (1926-2009) was, simply put, one of the greatest caricaturists of the 20th century. Working in a style influenced by old British illustrators, Linley Sambourne in particular, Levine was a mainstay in the pages of the New York Review of Books. But Levine was more than a caricature artist (not that there’s anything wrong with that). He was an excellent book and magazine illustrator as well, covering many topics with his work. I’m quite pleased to be able to offer an incredible pen & ink caricature of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by Levine. The piece was published in Atlas magazine in 1966, Gandhi’s first year as Prime Minister. I’ve not been able to track down the specific issue this piece appeared in, but given the symbols of the American flag and Soviet hammer and sickle, the piece clearly references Gandhi’s and India’s relationships with the USA and the Soviet Union. Under Gandhi, India’s relationship with the Soviet Union strengthened, resulting in a 1971 treaty. India’s relationship with the United States was more complicated at this time, given the USA’s growing relationship with China (an ally of Pakistan), and the USA siding with Bangladesh during the Bangladesh Liberation War. Still, there was some growth and partnerships with India during this time. The drawing itself is gorgeous. It’s everything you could want in a David Levine drawing, but that wonderful contour line to his sensitive and beautiful hatching and cross-hatching. Measuring 11”x 7½”, the piece is in Excellent condition, with two pushpin holes at the left edge. Levine has written information about the piece on the back. There is also a Forum Gallery stamp, from when the piece was originally sold. There is also light remnants of glue at the upper portion of the back, likely from where a cover sheet was attached. None of this affects the image side at all. Prime work by one of the true masters, and a mensch of a guy. $425.00 + 12.00 first class shipping.