N. C. Wyeth illustration from "The Boy's King Arthur" (1917): beautifully framed antique

The Boy’s King Arthur, edited by Sidney Lanier, was the fourth Illustrated Classic NCW produced for Charles Scribner’s Sons. He was, by then fully at home with his bright, colorful country style of painting, and this is apparent in the brilliant illustrations he created for Lanier’s text. 1917 was also the year the United States Congress declared war on Germany and began to build the army that would win the awful war in 1918. It was probably more than coincidence that the Scribners, chose to highlight the Arthurian legend that year. NCW’s “Three Deadly Blasts” was, after a fashion, a call to arms. Young Americans from every walk of life responded the call. A million men volunteered before President Wilson’s War Department could organize a draft.

In this colorful picture, Wyeth demonstrates his graphic skills as well as his abilities applying his blindingly bright colors. The trumpet’s pennant is rippled by a gentle breeze, yet we know a serious encounter is about to take place. The knight’s posture conveys his authority and his power. The colors of his tunic and the caparison of his steed create rapport with us, the viewers of the approaching battle. He is our hero, and we know he will prevail.