Vogue Magazine Cover – March 1, 1917 – Illustration by Frank X. Leyendecker
Elegant original Vogue magazine cover from March 1, 1917, featuring an exquisite illustration by Frank Xavier Leyendecker (1877–1924), one of America’s leading illustrators of the early 20th century and the brother of famed artist J.C. Leyendecker.
This Art Nouveau-inspired composition depicts a fashionable woman dressed in elaborate medieval costume, seated gracefully beside an ornate embroidery frame. Her flowing green and gold gown, conical headdress with a trailing veil, and poised expression evoke a sense of aristocratic refinement and fantasy. A small cat playing with a ball of yarn adds charm and domestic warmth to the scene.
The cover text reads: Vogue – March 1, 1917 – Price 25 Cents – Spring Patterns & New Materials. Published by Condé Nast, this issue marked the beginning of Vogue’s modern era, combining high fashion with imaginative artistic direction.
Frank X. Leyendecker’s illustration style blended elegance and wit, often transforming fashion imagery into timeless works of art. His use of rich colors, fine textures, and theatrical staging captured the optimism and sophistication of pre–Art Deco America.
A beautiful and highly collectible early Vogue cover—perfectly representing the golden age of magazine illustration.
Condition: Good for age, with minor toning and faint creases at margins. Colors remain vibrant and well preserved.
Framing tips: A simple black or gold Art Deco-style frame with cream or soft ivory matting will highlight the illustration’s deep blue background and regal color palette.
Technique: Chromolithograph (color lithographic print on paper) Maker: Frank X. Leyendecker, published by Condé Nast, New York, 1917
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