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New: Fenimore Art Museum exhibition
Bill Watterson took two sabbaticals during the 10-year-run of Calvin and Hobbes. The first was from May 5, 1991, thru February 1, 1992. Many editors were frustrated with this gap of fresh content and complained. Most threatened cancellation, but in the end only a few cancelled.
A limited edition of 1,000 lithographs were numbered and signed by Bill Watterson and then gifted to the editors who continued to support the strip.
Measurements: 17" x 22", with image area measuring 12" x 16.5".
1992 copyright © at the bottom right.
Several unsigned print proofs were created and are circulating as well.
(Image coming soon)
Original sabbatical letter
Universal Press Syndicate
4900 Main Street
Kansas City, Missouri 64112
816/932-6600
March 31, 1992
Dear Editor:
A little over a year ago, we wrote to you to advise you that Bill Watterson, creator of one of the most popular comic strips in the industry, was taking a nine-month sabbatical from cartooning.
We thought then, as we do now, that Bill's need to recoup and regenerate his imaginative powers was well-deserved, and we appreciate your understanding throughout his time off and your support upon his return February 2. Calvin and Hobbes has indeed returned --and the energy, humor and creativity of the last two months of releases show Watterson's ingenious talent is sharper than ever.
As a token of our appreciation, we've enclosed a limited edition lithograph featuring Calvin and Hobbes, signed by Bill Watterson. We hope that you enjoy it as you and your readers continue to follow the adventures of the most favored duo of the comic pages.
Bill joins Universal in our gratitude for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Lee Salem
Editorial Director
The promo kit from November 1991 was made with the same artwork on the cover.
Art from Bill Watterson for the first sabbatical, indicating that the strip on hold.
n/1,000
n/1,000
#586
#586
#970
#970
Signed-but-unnumbered
Signed-but-unnumbered
Some prints were signed, but not numbered.
Signed only (not numbered)
Signed only (not numbered)
Sold on Jun 2, 2019 for: $3,360.00 Heritage Auction
Heritage Auction had never before seen a signed-but-unnumbered version. This print was sent directly the American Cancer Society as a donation to one of their auctions, where this consignor purchased it.
Signed only (not numbered)
Signed only (not numbered)
Sold on Jan 14, 2023 for: $7,800.00 Heritage Auction
This print is signed by Bill Watterson, but not part of the limited edition sent to newspapers.
Unsigned and unnumbered
Unsigned and unnumbered
Owned
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