"Flag Over Supreme Court" by Jim Butcher, Original Mixed Media Painting on Illustration Board, 1983

This original mixed media painting, entitled “Flag Over Supreme Court”, was painted by Jim Butcher in 1983. The work originally appeared on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 20c “Flag Over Supreme Court” Booklet stamp, issued November 17, 1983. 

The piece honors the hallowed home of the nation’s highest court. Shown from the front, the Supreme Court building is rendered with its sweeping staircase and stately portico supported by tall Corinthian columns; a large American flag waves in the background. Designed by architect Cass Gilbert of New York City, the structure draws inspiration from classical Roman temple architecture. Construction began in December of 1929, and the building was completed on April 4, 1935.

Jim Butcher was born in Maryland. He studied art at the Maryland Institute College of Art, graduating in 1966. Upon graduation, Butcher enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and was trained as a jet engine mechanic. He was assigned to VMCJ-1 photo reconnaissance squadron stationed at Da Nang Air Base in Vietnam in March, 1967. While in Da Nang, he was recruited into the USMC Combat Art Program, where he produced works based on his experiences in the field with active Marine combat units and aviation missions. Returning from Vietnam, Butcher was assigned to duties as ambassador for the USMC’s combat art collection in Washington, D.C., working in public relations with civilian, government, and military organizations. He contributed over 100 works to the permanent collection of the Marine Corps Museum in Quantico, Virginia.

In 1969, Butcher worked at Major & Keesey, a commercial art studio in Baltimore. In 1971, he embarked on a freelance career producing work for advertising agencies, book and magazine publishers, and art departments of various colleges and government agencies. In 1974, Butcher joined New York Artist Representatives, Inc. and began receiving assignments from NASA, General Motors, CBS Television, Wells Fargo, Clint Eastwood Productions, and others. In the mid-1980s, he began taking formal portrait commissions, and has since painted over 120 portraits.

CONDITION:

Very good condition. Original mixed media painting, on illustration board. Colors are vibrant and bright. Board with horizontal sliced cut in bottom margin, not affecting image or stability. Signed “Jim Butcher 1983” in bottom right margin, below cut. The back of the frame has the original Fleetwood Division of Unicover Corporation copyright red inked stamp, blue Unicover Corporation property inventory number label, and printed inventory label. Image Dimensions: 18 1/2”H x 15 3/4”W. Board Dimensions:  24 3/4” H x 22”W. 

Painting has been artfully framed to the highest archival standards, with custom built frame, acid-free mat, and UV plexiglas.  

Framed Dimensions: 30 3/4" H x 28" W x 3/4" D.

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.