James R. Shaver
1867–1949

The illustrator James R. Shaver was active primarily from 1910–1925 in New York, working for many publishers including Life magazine, Century magazine, American Red Cross Magazine, and The New York Times, among others. During his career much of his work reflected his deep concern with societal issues such as child welfare, women’s rights and suffrage, poverty, justice and racial equality. His vignettes were full of humor, wit and compassion, and were revered by the public, so much so that in 1913, The Century Co. published a compilation of his work in a book titled Little Shavers: Sketches from Real Life.

The Museum is honored to be chosen as the recipient of a gift of 30 pen and ink drawings and 4 gouache paintings by Shaver. This generous gift is made by Herbert and Tonia Hughes, relatives of the artist and representatives of his estate.