Expressman

1924

Not on view

A prolific and popular illustrator who produced 323 designs for covers of the Saturday Evening Post, Rockwell created views of American life that were often sentimental, sometimes gently satirical, and occasionally rather pointed in social commentary in a detailed style ideal for mass reproduction and consumption. This humorous depiction of an express mailman taking a nap on suitcases for delivery (one with an ironic “RUSH” order sticker) appeared on the cover of the August 29, 1925 issue of the journal. Apparently, his exhaustion is caused not only by his demanding job, but also by the summer heat, which is indicated by the thermometer behind him. The man’s inert state is humorously echoed by the chicken sitting to his side.

Artwork Details

Title: Expressman
Artist: Norman Rockwell (American, New York 1894–1978 Stockbridge, Massachusetts)
Date: 1924
Medium: Oil on canvas, mounted on Masonite
Dimensions: 29 7/8 in. × 24 in. (75.9 × 61 cm)
Classification: Paintings
Credit Line: Gift of Continental Group, 1981
Object Number: 1981.143.3
Curatorial Department: Modern and Contemporary Art

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