The New Yorker Cover - Mar 13, 2000

This cover for the March 13, 2000, issue of The New Yorker is a satirical piece by the late artist and author Ian Falconer, best known for the Olivia children's book series. Titled "The Ascent of Man," the artwork parodies the classic "March of Progress" illustration of human evolution. It shows the familiar progression from an ape-like ancestor to an upright modern human, but then continues the sequence, showing the figure devolving into a portly man with a prominent belly, wearing a baseball cap.

Artistic Insight

Ian Falconer's "The Ascent of Man" is a masterful work of social commentary delivered with minimalist wit. By hijacking a universally recognized scientific diagram, Falconer creates a clever and immediate satire on the state of modern life. The humor lies in the subversion of the triumphant narrative of evolution; instead of culminating in an idealized human specimen, the "ascent" leads to a less physically fit, sedentary figure. This final silhouette serves as a critique of contemporary lifestyles at the turn of the millennium, pointing to the ironic consequences of a "progress" that has led to comfort at the cost of physical fitness. The use of simple, black silhouettes on a plain background ensures the message is sharp, immediate, and universally relatable.

Our ready-to-hang premium wooden frames, crafted from responsibly sourced oak or ash, feature unique wood grains for added character, making them ideal for those seeking to showcase world-class quality artwork:

• Ready-to-hang: Includes hanging kit, ready to hang directly on the wall.
• Frame Material: Responsibly sourced oak and ash wood.
• Frame Color: Natural wood, black, and white, showcasing the distinct wood grain.
• Frame Measurements: 20mm (0.79") thick and wide, wider than the classic 14mm (0.55") frame.
• Paper Weight: 200 gsm (80 lb), thickness: 0.22 mm (8.7 mils), durable and long-lasting.
• Paper Finishing: Matte, smooth, uncoated finish.
• Protection: Shatterproof plexiglass protects the poster.
• Sustainable Paper: FSC-certified materials or equivalent.