This is an original vintage 1946 Alberto Vargas pin-up centerfold titled "Saints Be Praised,"featured in Esquire magazine. Renowned for his artistry, Vargas captures a stunning depiction of a blue-eyed blonde adorned in a fitted pink top and white short-shorts. Complementing this exquisite illustration is a verse by Phil Stack, enhancing the charm and allure of the piece.
Alberto Vargas (1896–1982) was one of the most celebrated pin-up artists of the 20th century. His iconic works graced magazines like Esquire and Playboy, and his name became synonymous with the glamour and elegance of the "Vargas Girls." Known for his masterful airbrushing techniques and attention to detail, Vargas captured the idealized beauty of the era while maintaining a sense of sophistication. Today, his art remains highly collectible and an enduring symbol of vintage Americana.
This piece comes from the Chuck Olson Collection, an extensive archive of over 10,000 vintage prints amassed over 40 years. Chuck Olson's passion for calendar art and vintage illustrations, particularly from the "Golden Age of the Calendar" (1900–1960), took him across the United States in search of rare treasures.
This original 1946 Vargas centerfold exemplifies mid-century artistry, making it a valuable addition to any collection of vintage pin-ups, Alberto Vargas works, or Americana.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions. Thank you for viewing this listing, and don't miss the chance to own a piece of iconic Vargas history!