Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a vibrant, large-scale original mixed media illustration on board depicting a stylized, retro Ray-O-Vac flashlight. Hand-signed and dated 'T. Bradford 1977' in pencil, the artwork captures the essence of late mid-century industrial design with a playful, psychedelic Pop Art twist.
Story
In 1977, artist Tom Bradford transformed a humble, utilitarian Ray-O-Vac flashlight into a monument of cosmic design. By infusing a common household tool with psychedelic energy, this piece captures the exact moment when mid-century industrial utility collided with the vibrant, expressive freedom of late-70s Pop Art.
Maker / Origin
Tom Bradford was an American artist active in the mid-to-late 20th century, known for his graphic sensibility and engagement with commercial imagery. His work often bridged the gap between commercial illustration and fine art, elevating everyday objects into subjects of contemplation.
Condition & Value
The unframed illustration board shows light, age-appropriate wear along the outer edges and corners, with minor surface dust. The colors remain remarkably bright and unfaded, which is excellent for marker-based media of this era.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.