Greg and Tim Hildebrandt (American, 20th Century) "Keep it secret, Keep it safe", Tolkien Art of the Brothers Hildebrandt calendar Acrylic on board 35-1/2 x 46 inches (90.2 x 116.8 cm) Signed lower right: HILDEBRANDT From the Deadcode Collection The legacy of the Brothers Hildebrandt in ensuring the popularity of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings is profound. Their interpretations of Tolkien's classic characters exude warmth and kindness, while their intricate, cinematic artistry and luminous, classic fantasy aesthetic brought Middle-Earth to life. Their artwork enchanted generations and inspired countless writers and artists to create their own fairy tale-infused epic fantasies. From their first J.R.R. Tolkien Calendar in 1976 to their final one in 2006, the Hildebrandts' vision became integral to popular culture's perception of this legendary saga. It is fitting that Keep It Secret, Keep It Safe was chosen as the cover for their final calendar. Bathed in a poignant late-day glow, the piece captures a moment that both marks the beginning of a new adventure and symbolizes a younger generation embracing the mantle of responsibility for the future. Resonant with nostalgia and hope, the work serves as a tender coda to the Brothers Hildebrandt's own epic journey. The present work is accompanied by a 2006 The Tolkien Art of the Brothers Hildebrandt calendar. HID12401132022 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved www.HA.com/TexasAuctioneerLicenseNotice