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The New Yorker Cover, May 18, 1987

This iconic New Yorker cover, illustrated by Jean-Jacques Sempé, captures a quintessential urban scene on May 18, 1987. A long line of people, dressed in business attire, are seated on benches, engrossed in reading newspapers and books. The backdrop features towering city buildings and a bustling street with yellow cabs and hot dog stands, hinting at the vibrant energy of New York City. The artwork's loose, expressive watercolor style, characteristic of Sempé, imbues the scene with a sense of everyday life and quiet contemplation amidst the urban sprawl. The composition draws the viewer's eye along the line of individuals, creating a narrative of shared, yet individual, moments of respite and engagement with the printed word. This cover is a timeless representation of city life and the enduring appeal of print media.

Colour palette