Skip to main content

Atherton, John, 1900-1952

 Person

Staff Only

Biography

John Atherton was an American painter and illustrator known for his expressive style and contributions to American visual culture during the early twentieth century, including the period of World War II. Born in 1900, Atherton first worked as a commercial artist before gaining recognition for his paintings and magazine illustrations. During World War II, he created artwork that supported the American war effort through patriotic imagery and illustrations published in national magazines and government campaigns. His paintings often combined realism with dramatic composition, helping communicate the urgency and emotional weight of wartime experiences to the public.

Found in 2 Collections and/or Records:

John Nau III Collection

 Collection
Identifier: 000073
Abstract

The John Nau III Collection consists of nine framed American propaganda posters and original and reproduction World War II-related artworks.

Dates: 1942; undated
Found in: Center for Pacific War Studies / National Museum of the Pacific War

Poster, A Careless Word...Another Cross

 Item — Framed Area, RW37 SC01 SH02
Identifier: 2026.003.003
Scope and Contents From the Collection: The John Nau III Collection consists of nine framed American propaganda posters and original and reproduction World War II-related artworks. The collection includes six original or reproduction World War II-era propaganda and war bond posters dating from circa 1942–1945, featuring themes of sacrifice, national unity, military service, and civilian support for the war effort. Titles include Buy War Bonds, A Strange Sort of Prayer, A Careless Word… Another Cross, 7th War Loan Now All Together,...
Dates: 1942; undated
Found in: Center for Pacific War Studies / National Museum of the Pacific War / John Nau III Collection

View Staff Interface | Visit ArchivesSpace.org | v4.1.1