Norman Rockwell’s Shuffleton’s Barbershop, originally a cover illustration for The Saturday Evening Post on April 29, 1950, captures a quintessential slice of Americana. This print showcases Rockwell’s meticulous detail and storytelling ability, offering viewers a glimpse into a seemingly ordinary, yet richly observed, barbershop scene. The artwork is available as a limited edition artist’s proof, allowing collectors to own a piece of this iconic imagery.
A Glimpse into Small-Town America Through Rockwell’s Eyes
Painted in Rockwell’s hometown of Arlington, Vermont, Shuffleton’s Barbershop is more than just a depiction of a local business; it’s a narrative woven with subtle clues about its proprietor and the community it serves. Rob Shuffleton, the barbershop owner, is featured with a fiddler in the back room, suggesting a hidden musical gathering within this everyday setting. Rockwell’s genius lies in his ability to reveal character and atmosphere through carefully chosen details. From the placement of combs and rusty clippers to the light catching the magazine rack and the worn leather of the barber chair, each element contributes to the painting’s depth and authenticity. These details, as Rockwell himself noted, were often “accidents of light” captured through photography, enhancing the realism of the scene.
Rockwell’s Artistic Mastery in Print
One of Rockwell’s significant challenges in creating Shuffleton’s Barbershop was rendering the shop’s glass window. This element positions the viewer as an outsider looking in, yet Rockwell masterfully uses light to draw the eye into the musical scene unfolding within. This print beautifully exemplifies Rockwell’s skill in using light and shadow to create depth and focus. As Rockwell described, “A photograph catches all that,” referring to the nuanced details and lighting he incorporated into his work. This limited edition lithograph print preserves these intricate details, making it a prized possession for art enthusiasts.
Own a Piece of Art History: The Shuffleton’s Barbershop Print
This exceptional limited edition artist proof of Shuffleton’s Barbershop is hand-signed by Norman Rockwell, adding to its collectible value. Measuring 29 X 34 inches, this print is in excellent condition, ready to be displayed and admired. Purchasing this Norman Rockwell print not only allows you to own a piece of American art history but also directly supports the Norman Rockwell Museum. Each purchase includes an Authenticity Certificate signed by the Museum Director, a complimentary one-year family membership to the Museum, and care instructions for the print. Payment plans are available to make this significant artwork accessible to a wider audience. For further information on acquiring this remarkable Print Barbershop scene, please contact the Norman Rockwell Museum.
