The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2241:
Description
Collection of 32 original “Blue Jackets Stationery” letterpress printing blocks and a corresponding proof sheet by Sparland Stationery out of Des Moines, Iowa. Dating to the World War II era, these blocks feature “illustrations of sailors and curvaceous gals” in the classic Esquire-style pinup aesthetic popular during the 1940s. The lot includes a variety of metal-faced, wood-mounted blocks—some featuring full figures and others containing secondary color-fill elements—alongside a proof sheet illustrating the final letterhead designs. These blocks offer a unique glimpse into wartime commercial printing and the iconic “cheesecake” art of the period. The blocks show signs of use consistent with their age, including ink staining on the metal surfaces, and minor wear to the wooden bases. The proof sheet shows typical yellowing and fold lines and the storage boxes, which were originally film paper boxes from 1957, show wear from use and storage. One box lid is separated into two pieces along the designated perforated line. Please see photos for overall condition. 2 boxes, each box measures: L 15″, W 11.5″, H 1”.
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