Bessie Gutmann Print Appraisal

Vintage Lithographic Print - 'Wake Up, Brother!' by Bessie Pease Gutmann

This item is a vintage lithographic print entitled 'Wake Up, Brother!' created by the renowned American illustrator Bessie Pease Gutmann, likely dating from the early to mid-20th century (circa 1920s-1940s). The artwork depicts a tender scene of two young children, a blonde-haired girl leaning over a sleeping infant, set against a soft, horticultural background of white and yellow flowers. The color palette is characteristic of Gutmann’s style, utilizing muted pastels, cream tones, and soft greens to create a nostalgic, sentimental atmosphere. The print features the title 'WAKE UP BROTHER!' clearly visible along the left edge of the image. It is housed in an original or period-appropriate dark wood frame with a textured finish and ornate scrolling metal hardware on the side, suggesting it may have been part of a tray or a specific decorative wall unit. Regarding condition, there is a prominent circular water stain or moisture damage mark near the center of the print over the infant's clothing, and some general fading consistent with age. The frame shows various scuffs, nicks, and instances of finish loss along the edges, and the paper backing appears to be slightly wavy, indicating past exposure to humidity. Despite these condition issues, the piece retains its charm as a classic example of early 20th-century nursery art.