ANNA MARIE MAGAGNA. Two fashion illustrations for Henri Bendel. Ink, marker, gouache, and pastel on paper. "Linen Cuffs and Cherries." Model: Bobbie Smythe. 635x532 mm; 25x21 inches, matted to 156x370 mm; 6 1/8x14 1/4 inches, sight. With handwork in wash. * "Almost Amish." Model: Susan Baraz. 635x532 mm; 25x21 inches, matted to 432x330 mm; 17x13 inches, sight size. Image cut out and mounted to paper. Both Signed by Magagna in ink, lower margins. Tipped to archival mattes and stylishly framed to 533x635 mm; 21x25 inches. 1970.
The two images were used in long-running Bendel advertisements in the New York Times for 1970. Magagna's work was revolutionary in the world of fashion illustration. The American retail and fashion groundbreaker, Geraldine Stutz, then President of Henri Bendel in New York City, "discovered" Magagna and selected her to be the store's exclusive artist from 1969 to the early 1970's where she abruptly changed their look from cool sophistication to a savvy, smart and edgy elegance.
