Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Hubba Blubba

Whale Ambergris. Original Disney Illustration, 1950s, Paul Hartley
Original gouache on illustration board for
WALT DISNEY MAGAZINE
Volume 4, Number 5, August 1959
Pgs. 8/9
TALE OF AN AILING WHALE
Artist: Paul Hartley 

A whale seems to have coughed up his chewing gum (actually ambergris!) in this original illustration.  A favorite...this was my screensaver for about 5 months.

5 comments:

Major Pepperidge said...

Ambergris! "....is a solid, waxy, flammable substance of a dull gray or blackish color produced in the digestive system of sperm whales."

It was often found floating after being arfed up by a whale, and was used in the manufacture of perfumes believe it or not.

Chris Merritt said...

Wow! What a beautiful piece! An ideas on who did it?

jriggity said...

dang.... thats pretty cool man!

jriggity

Kevin Kidney said...

Ambergris! Fascinating! (and kinda gross, too) But thanks for the enlightenment.
Chris, I am researching the artist's identity and will report back soon. I have a feeling it will turn out to be someone we already know and admire...

Ruben Procopio said...

Hi Kevin!

Where have you been? Its more like where have I been! Wow what a wonderful blog, inspiration and eye candy everywhere you look! Congrats on all your incredible designs!

Thanks for the compliments on the Adam West bust and for stopping by... Keep in touch!

Ruben