BENTON SPRUANCE The Rachel, 1968

“The Rachel” by Benton Spruance is a color lithograph printed in 1968 from an edition of 50. The work is part of the ambitious portfolio Moby Dick: Passion of Ahab, a series of twenty-six lithographs inspired by Herman Melville’s legendary novel. Spruance died unexpectedly in 1967 prior to the completion of the publication, making the series one of the final projects associated with his remarkable career.

Born in Philadelphia in 1904, Spruance was celebrated for his innovations in color lithography and his emotionally charged interpretations of literary, mythological, and religious themes. Beyond his artistic achievements, he played a major role in supporting fellow artists as a founder of the Philadelphia chapter of Artists Equity, advocating for artists’ rights and visibility within the cultural community.

This lithograph is an interpretation of Spruance’s original imagery and was not printed from the artist’s original stones. Priced accordingly, the work nevertheless retains the expressive energy, dramatic composition, and psychological intensity that characterize Spruance’s powerful visual language. Produced in the pre-digital poster era, it remains a compelling collectible for admirers of American printmaking and literary-inspired art. Framing available upon request.