Thomas Hart Benton, one of the most famous early 20th C. American artists, is known by collectors for more than just his murals and paintings. Over the course of four decades, from 1929 – 1974, Benton created 93 different lithographs. They’re subject matter exploring the nuances of American life, landscape, and lore. 

Benton had a distinct fondness for prints. Their economical nature perfectly resonated with his aspiration to democratize art. With the Associated American Artists (AAA) handling their distribution, most of his lithographs were printed in editions of 250.  Shattering the age-old belief that art was a privilege of the rich, AAA made these lithographs accessible through department stores and mail orders. Collectors of Thomas Hart Benton could acquire a signed limited lithograph for the lofty price of just $5.  

Fast forward a half century: From the Museum of Modern Art in New York to the Nelson-Atkins in Kansas City, Benton’s lithographic legacy can be found in major museums and  eminent private collections across the country. Correspondingly, the prices realized for a signed Benton lithograph have surged in tandem with the growing demand, attesting to the enduring value of his artistic contributions.