James Spencer Russell Signed 1957 “1st Class Autobahn” Ink and Watercolor Painting

A 1957 ink and watercolor painting by the American artist James Spencer Russell (1915-2000). Titled 1st Class Autobahn, this detailed drawing depicts the interior of a 1st class German passenger train car or bus and was completed during Russell's trip to Europe while working for NBC television in 1957. Signed to the lower right, the drawing is displayed in a wooden frame and a white mat.

Born in Monticello, Indiana, Russell was interested in art from a young age but was directed into pursuing a military career by his family. As a young person, he attended a military academy, became a celebrated codebreaker during WWII, and even received a scholarship to attend WestPoint. However, Russell's interest in art eventually led him to abandon his military pursuits and try to make it in the art world instead. After working as an NBC set designer after WWII, he turned his attention to becoming a full-time artist. During the 1960s, he started exhibiting his works alongside artists who would later come to characterize the art scene at the time, including Robert Rauschenberg and Roy Lichtenstein. He later moved back to Indiana where he continued to create art until his death in 2000. 

Measurements:

15” W x 19.25” H x 1.5” D (frame); 7” W x 10.5” H (sight).

Condition notes:

Some wear to frame.