About the Artist
Saul Steinberg was a Romanian-born American artist whose incisive wit and distinctive linework helped define the visual language of The New Yorker for decades. Trained as an architect, Steinberg brought a structured sensibility to his drawings, blending satire, humor, and graphic sophistication. His work bridges the worlds of fine art and editorial illustration, transforming everyday scenes into insightful cultural commentary.
For admirers of famous artists wall art, Steinberg’s ability to distill complex ideas into deceptively simple forms makes his pieces enduring favorites among collectors and design enthusiasts.
The Artwork
This 1976 illustration was created as a cover for The New Yorker, encapsulating the city’s self-perception and the playful exaggeration of its importance in the world. Steinberg’s drawing is an iconic visual essay on urban perspective, poking fun at how New Yorkers see their city as the center of the universe. The artwork reflects the magazine’s tradition of sharp, urbane commentary and captures a moment in time when editorial illustration was a vital part of public discourse.
As a vintage poster today, it continues to resonate with those fascinated by New York’s mythology and the power of clever visual storytelling. The piece stands as a testament to the era’s confidence in using art to spark conversation and reflection.
Style & Characteristics
The composition is presented as a whimsical map, with Manhattan drawn in crisp black lines and hand-lettered place names radiating outward. The perspective is intentionally skewed: the city’s streets and avenues are detailed and prominent in the foreground, while distant locations are compressed into narrow, simplified bands. Subtle touches of blue, green, and red punctuate the otherwise soft beige background, lending the image a playful yet refined atmosphere.
Steinberg’s minimalist technique, authoritative ink drawing, and clever distortion of scale combine to create a poster that is both visually striking and intellectually engaging—a classic example of editorial art with enduring appeal.
In Interior Design
This Saul Steinberg poster adds a witty, sophisticated accent to spaces such as home offices, living rooms, or entryways, especially where conversation pieces are welcome. Its map-like design pairs well with map-inspired prints and complements modern or mid-century furnishings.
To harmonize with the artwork, consider echoing the beige background with warm neutrals and incorporating blue or green accents through textiles or ceramics. It also fits seamlessly into blue-toned wall art groupings, making it a favorite among New York enthusiasts and lovers of editorial illustration.
