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A Fun and Risque Pictorial Map of Santa Monica
Whimsical, risque and marvelously ephemeral map of Santa Monica, drawn by Walt C. King and Joe Marks.
This intriguing item is a 1941 caricature map of Santa Monica, California, a unique blend of cartographic skill and social commentary from the early 20th century. The piece serves as a vibrant snapshot of the city's cultural and social landscape during a dynamic period in American history.
The map is distinguished by its detailed and humorous portrayal of Santa Monica's landmarks, businesses, and societal figures, capturing the essence of the city's community life and leisure culture prior to America's full involvement in World War II. Its artistic style is characteristic of the period's popular culture, with exaggerated features and satirical elements that provide insight into the local customs, fashions, and public attitudes of the time.
The caricature map is further notable for its depiction of specific personalities and establishments, offering a glimpse into the local celebrity culture and the social hierarchy of Santa Monica in the early 1940s. The prominence of various businesses and entertainment venues reflects the city's status as a popular coastal destination, while the portrayal of individual characters suggests the map's dual function as a social commentary and a promotional piece.
The artist may be the same Walt C. King who is listed as commercial artist in "Artists in California, 1786-1940" as residing in Los Angeles in 1931 and/or the Walter C. King who was a well regarded residential architect in Los Angeles in the 1930s, including a Hollywood Townhouse which Marilyn Monroe, Greta Garbo and Marlene Dietrich lived in a different times in their careers.
Rarity
The map is unrecorded.
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