Original Illustrations of ‘Lucky Luke’ Sold for Millions
The beloved comics of the quick-drawing cowboy, Lucky Luke, have once again proven their undying popularity. This week, original drawings by the Belgian comic artist Maurice De Bevere, known by his pen name Morris, were sold for a substantial sum at an auction in Paris. These prized illustrations are from the pages of the book “La Guérison des Dalton” or “The Dalton Brothers’ Rehabilitation,” first published in its original language in 1975 and subsequently in Icelandic two years later. The total amount fetched for these pages exceeded 300 million Icelandic króna.
Record-breaking Sale
The most expensive single page from this collection was auctioned for 113,000 euros, which roughly translates to 16.5 million Icelandic króna. This auction marked the first time that De Bevere’s original illustrations of the cowboy, known for being faster than his own shadow, were available for public bidding.
The Legacy of Morris and Lucky Luke
Maurice De Bevere, or Morris as he was widely known, created numerous stories featuring Lucky Luke, and after his tenure, other artists continued to contribute to the saga. The character of Lucky Luke has been translated into more than thirty languages, with its debut story appearing in the comic magazine “Spirou” in 1946. The French writer René Goscinny, who is also famous for the “Asterix” series, penned the scripts for many of these stories. Together, Morris and Goscinny produced dozens of Lucky Luke books, with about fifty of them published in Icelandic. Goscinny passed away in 1977, followed by Morris in 2001.
Impact on Comics and Popular Culture
The enduring appeal of Lucky Luke lies in its blend of humor, adventure, and the parody of the classic Western genre. The character’s escapades often feature historical figures and events, providing a satirical take on the Old West. The collaboration between Morris and Goscinny is often credited with elevating the series to international fame, with Goscinny’s sharp wit and Morris’s distinctive artistic style creating a timeless classic.
Critical Analysis
The auction of Maurice De Bevere’s original drawings serves as a testament to the significant cultural impact of the Lucky Luke series. These illustrations are not merely artworks; they are pieces of comic history that capture the imagination of generations of readers. The impressive auction results reflect the high regard collectors and fans have for this iconic series. Furthermore, the collaboration between Morris and Goscinny exemplifies the power of creative partnerships in the arts.
While the Western genre has evolved over the years, the humor and charm of Lucky Luke remain relevant. The series’ continued popularity highlights the universal appeal of its themes and characters. As new artists and writers take up the mantle, the legacy of Lucky Luke is poised to endure, captivating future audiences with tales of a cowboy who is always ready to outdraw his own shadow.