First Crocus/First Sign of Spring (Gardener with Hoe), Saturday Evening Post March 22, 1947.
Norman Rockwell's Post covers were generally finished months in advance of their publication dates. For the crocuses in First Signs of Spring, Rockwell wanted real flowers as reference, but since work on the illustration was completed in winter's coldest months, finding live crocuses proved difficult. Calls were made to New England greenhouses, but no local florist stocked crocuses in winter. Rockwell eventually procured a New York City shopkeeper who specialized in out-of-season flowers, and the blooms were delivered to his Vermont studio.
The original oil painting was recently donated to the Norman Rockwell Museum permanent collection.
Quality
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Many of the works offered through this store are exclusive and not available anywhere else. We are continually adding new artworks to our offering, so be sure to check back regularly as you build your own gallery. A variety of molding styles means our custom framed prints can match any type of decor.