21: THOMAS HART BENTON (1889-1975) PENCIL SIGNED LITHOGRAPH

Thomas Hart Benton (1889-1975)
Discussion (1969)
The nice, clean example in fine condition is published by Associated American Artists in an edition of 250 prints on wove paper and signed by the artist in pencil below the image lower right, Fath catalog number 82.

This is a fine, dark impression in exceptional condition.

Benton's comments in Fath read: 'In the summer of 1937, Life magazine hired me to report, with drawings, on the famous 'sit down' strikes occurring in the Detroit area at the time. Some newspaper reporters had written of these strikes as if they were the beginnings of revolution. I found neither talk about or desire for revolution, only an itch for more money. The drawing from which this litho was made represents a discussion between a union recruiter and a negro worker. The Union boss sits in the background looking on.'
Image measures 9.75 x 12, sheet is 12.75 x 18, and frame is 19.75 x 23.5 inches.
Fine to near mint condition, very clean, the full untrimmed sheet with four deckle edges, not laid down, no damage, stain, punctures, tears or repair; a very fine example framed to archival standards in acid free mounts.
Provenance: A private Kansas City collection.
$2,000 - $3,000