You can now own a one-of-a-kind piece of comic book history. The first-ever sketch of Wonder Woman is going to auction, and it offers an exiting glimpse into the genesis of the first lady of comic books.
Considered one of DC comics’ “Big Three” along with Superman and Batman, Wonder Woman has remained one of the industry’s most popular and revered superhero characters over her nearly 80 year existence. The sketch was recently recovered from the estate of H.G. Peter, the character’s original artist, and features two detailed mock-ups of the character and looks to be drawn in pencil, ink and crayon. Equally as interesting, scribbled next to the drawings of Wonder Woman is a written conversation between Peter and character creator William Marston, as the two work on developing the character’s signature look.
On the sketch, Peter writes: “Dear Dr. Marston, I slapped these two out in a hurry. The eagle is tough to handle — when in perspective or in profile, he doesn’t show up clearly — the shoes look like a stenographer’s. I think the idea might be incorporated as a sort of Roman contraption. —Peter.”
Marston replies: “Dear Pete – I think the gal with hand up is very cute. I like her skirt, legs, hair. Bracelets okay + boots. These probably will work out. See other suggestions enclosed. No on these + stripes – red + white. With eagle’s wings above or below breasts as per enclosed? Leave it to you. Don’t we have to put a red stripe around her waist as belt? I thought Gaines wanted it – don’t remember. Circlet will have to go higher – more like crown – see suggestions enclosed. See you Wednesday morning -WMM.”
What’s immediately striking about these first sketches is how remarkably close this early version of the character is to the one seen in comic books today. The sketches even closely resembles the version of the character to be played by Gal Godot in the upcoming film, Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice.
The piece measures approximately 13″ x 18.75″ and will soon go to auction over at Comiclink for a still undisclosed price.
