Original ink on illustration paper with white highlights, signed by Paul at center left (torn with losses, pinholes, some soiling). Sheet 12 x 14 3/4". Provenance: From the collection of Famous Fantastic Mysteries (their ownership marks and printing instructions on verso); Forrest J. Ackerman (1916-2008), American science fiction editor and publisher; acquired by the present owner directly from Ackerman.

The first issue of Famous Fantastic Mysteries was published in September/October 1939 and was edited by Mary Gnaedinger (1897-1976), the first woman to act as lead editor of a science fiction publication. Frank R. Paul began illustrating for the magazine with its third issue and quickly became one of its most popular artists. His work, along with that of Virgil Finlay, helped to make Famous Fantastic Mysteries one of the most popular science fiction magazines of its day. Accompanied by Certificate of Authenticity dated 8 March 2004 and SIGNED BY FORREST J. ACKERMAN.