Catalog Archive
Auction 155, Lot 136

McCandlish's Humorous Prohibition Map

"Bootlegger's Map of the United States"

Subject: United States

Period: 1926 (dated)

Publication:

Color: Black & White

Size:
34.1 x 21.4 inches
86.6 x 54.4 cm
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This unique map spoofing prohibition is by Edward McCandlish. Filled with puns, nothing is sacred in this hilarious look at alcohol and prohibition. Many place names are plays on words, like Chi-keg-o, Tus-Keg-ee, Mash-ville, Albu-Corky, Scoth (sic) Bluff, Booze (Boise), and many more (some so bad they hurt). The pints of the compass are labeled Norse, Wets, Yeast, and Souse. McCandlish was a prominent illustrator for the children's page in many newspapers in the 1920's and 1930's, making this parody a radical departure. A wonderful piece of Americana that beautifully captures the humor and mood of the time.

References:

Condition: B

A fine impression that presents well, issued folding but now trimmed to the neatline and backed in linen. There are some archivally repaired fold separations, including one that appears to run the length of the map at center, with some light stains concentrated around the center of the map and a few holes that have been infilled with archival materials.

Estimate: $1,000 - $1,300

Sold for: $1,400

Closed on 11/18/2015

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