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Arthur E. Becher
"I claim this place of honor" Illustration for "The Black Hunter"

1925

$9,500
£7,340.40
€8,486.19
CA$13,424.19
A$15,056.12
CHF 7,884.66
MX$182,946.52
NOK 100,121.93
SEK 94,922.64
DKK 63,344.98

About the Item

Story illustration for “The Black Hunter” by James Oliver Curwood for Cosmopolitan, published November 1925, pages 84-85. Set against the backdrop of 1754 Quebec, amidst the escalating conflict between the English and French, this “Romance of Old Quebec” follows the lives of David and his beloved childhood sweetheart, Anne. David lives a secluded life in the Quebec forests with his mother when his idyllic life is abruptly disrupted by the arrival of Bigot, the King’s Intendant. Bigot’s infatuation with Anne ignites a cunning plot, as he masterfully manipulates David, luring him from his wilderness home to the bustling city under false pretenses. While Anne is initially swayed by Bigot’s charm, she gradually begins to see through his deceitful schemes. The narrative intensifies when David publicly humiliates Bigot. Instead of punishing him, Bigot enacts a sinister plan. Feigning forgiveness, he takes David under his wing, promising him a coveted lieutenancy. Bigot’s true objective is to elevate David to a position of respect, only to orchestrate his public disgrace and, ultimately, win Anne’s affection. Arthur Becher’s illustration captures a pivotal moment. With calculated charm, Bigot approaches David and Anne before a gathered crowd, boldly declaring, “‘I claim this place of honor,’ cried Bigot, ‘with Anne St. Denis on one side of me, and Lieutenant David Rock on my other – Lieutenant Rock, sweet ladies and young gentlemen, whom I have promised a place on the Governor’s staff.’” Anne’s reaction – “Anne could have thrown her arms around him for his amazing words”--powerfully underscores Bigot’s manipulative prowess. This scene perfectly encapsulates Bigot’s strategic efforts to win Anne’s favor while simultaneously asserting his influence over David.
  • Creator:
    Arthur E. Becher (1877 - 1960, American)
  • Creation Year:
    1925
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 30.5 in (77.47 cm)Width: 41.25 in (104.78 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Fort Washington, PA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 8561stDibs: LU38434303541

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