Smokey The Bear - Original signed drawing by creator Rudolph "Rudy" Wendelin

Description

Fantastic original Smokey the Bear drawing by  creator Rudolph "Rudy" Wendelin. The large drawing measures 8.5" x 11" and is accomplished in ink and pencil. Wendolin has signed it prominently at the bottom and also written "Smokey"  on it. There's a printed stamp at the bottom "Atthorized by 18 U.S.C. 711" at the bottom, but I don't know what this refers to. There's also a a small whited out area in the bottom left where he covered over something. There small creases in the three of the corners but they don't detract in any way and are outside the image area. There are a few small tape marks on the back of the image as well.
This is wonderful piece by it's creator of one of the most world's most iconic characters and rare to find one this size.
Comes with COA from Georgia Terry, the dealer I purchased it from in 2004.
I'm currently downsizing my extensive collection of cartoon, illustration and animation art, so please check out my other auctions as I'll be updating listings regularly.
More about the artist...
Rudolph Andreas Michael Wendelin was a United States Forest Service employee and the best-known artist behind Smokey Bear. Beginning in 1944, Wendelin became the full-time artist for the Smokey Bear campaign. He was considered Smokey Bear's "caretaker" until his retirement in 1973.
Born February 27, 1910 --- Died
August 31, 2000.