LESLIE RAGAN (1897-1972) THE NEW EMPIRE STATE EXPRESS / NEW YORK CENTRAL SYSTEM. 1941. 40 3/4x27 inches, 103 1/2x68 1/2 cm. Brett Lithographing Company, [New York.] Condition B: foxing, staining, overpainting and pin holes in margins and text; staining, glue residue and extensive restoration in image. Mounted on board. Steaming through an autumn landscape while making the run between New York City and Buffalo, this powerful engine rounds a bend so that her rear car is also visible. In 1891, the Empire State Express made her first trip. On her 50th anniversary in 1941, the New York Central Line inaugurated the "New" Empire State Express. According to the hyperbolic commentary written in a booklet released by the railroad for the occasion, this train, "which is truly magnificent [is] as completely comfortable as modern science can make it." The railroad also used this poster image for the cover of a brochure. Zega 154.
