The New Yorker Cover - May 18, 1987

The artwork depicts a bustling New York City plaza flanked by towering skyscrapers. A seemingly endless, orderly line of office workers sits on small, identical stools, enjoying their lunch break outdoors. Rendered in a light, detailed, and gestural style, the scene captures a multitude of individual moments within the massive, collective ritual.

Artistic Insight

This cover is a classic piece by the celebrated French illustrator Jean-Jacques Sempé, known for his witty and deeply humanistic observations of everyday life. As an outsider looking in, Sempé was fascinated by the unique social choreography of New York. Here, he finds a gentle absurdity and charm in this improvised mass picnic. Rather than a critique of urban conformity, the scene is an affectionate commentary on civilized adaptation. Sempé’s delicate pen-and-ink linework and soft watercolor washes highlight the individuality within the crowd, celebrating this quiet, shared moment of peace and sustenance that New Yorkers have carved out for themselves amidst the city's imposing architecture.

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.