Disney Artist Jerry Costello "Nixon & Ike '60 GOP" Original Political Drawing

Title:
Original 1950s Political Cartoon by Jerry Costello – Featuring Richard Nixon & Dwight D. Eisenhower (“Ike”)

Description:
Original hand-drawn political cartoon by American editorial artist Jerry Costello, executed in black ink and white highlights on textured artist board, measuring approximately 11" x 14". Signed prominently by the artist in the lower left corner. The cartoon features Richard Nixon and Dwight D. “Ike” Eisenhower, both wearing GOP baseball caps and smiling confidently as confetti and banners explode above them—signaling celebration, victory, or campaign momentum. Both figures are labeled (“NIXON” and “IKE”), and their camaraderie is emphasized with Nixon placing an arm around Eisenhower. Stylistically, the piece features Costello’s trademark bold ink strokes, expressive linework, and strategic use of white gouache for tonal corrections, marking it as a working production piece likely prepared for newspaper publication during Eisenhower’s 1952 or 1956 presidential campaigns.

Historical Context:
This cartoon captures the public image of the Republican ticket during the 1950s, likely referencing either the 1952 or 1956 U.S. presidential campaigns. Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Allied Commander during World War II, emerged as a political phenomenon, running as the Republican candidate with Richard Nixon as his vice-presidential running mate. Eisenhower’s popular wartime legacy and calm leadership helped secure a landslide victory in 1952, followed by a re-election in 1956. Nixon, a rising star of the GOP known for his staunch anti-communism and aggressive debate style, was both a complement and contrast to Eisenhower’s steadier demeanor. The image of the two beaming in coordinated campaign caps projects unity and strength during a politically charged era dominated by Cold War anxieties and domestic change.

The piece is by Gerald "Jerry" Costello (1897–1971), a prolific American animator and editorial cartoonist best known for his 40-year tenure at the Knickerbocker News (1922–1962). Prior to that, Costello worked at Walt Disney Studios and sold his first animated cartoon to Bray Productions in 1918—an animation studio closely linked with pioneers Max and Dave Fleischer. Costello’s political cartoons are celebrated for their bold pen strokes, sharp satire, and lucid commentary, often focused on themes such as foreign threats to democracy, political corruption, and American patriotism. His work appeared regularly on editorial pages and is now preserved in the collections of the Library of Congress, Princeton University, and Columbia University.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
N/A

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
A dynamic and visually engaging portrayal of one of the most iconic Republican pairings in 20th-century American politics, this original Jerry Costello cartoon offers an authentic glimpse into mid-century campaign culture. With bold artistic execution and historical resonance, it’s an ideal addition for collectors of presidential memorabilia, Cold War–era political art, and original newspaper editorial illustration.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.