Pan Am - Central America - Mexico

Designed by Algot Stenbery in 1959, this poster entices travelers to fly Pan Am to Central America. The image features a characteristic open-air Central American marketplace, a potential destination for tourists.

Markets serve as a central location to buy and sell goods, but also a place to socialize with the community. In this image, fruits, vegetables, and other goods are being sold from woven baskets. Farther back in the image, market-goers are seen lounging and conversing on blankets under make-shift tents. This scene is set against a background of what appears to be Mayan glyphs.

The 1950’s and early 60’s saw a rapid growth in the routes serviced by the commercial airlines and Pan American was one of those prominent carriers. Pan Am pioneered intercontinental flying, and was the largest international air carrier based in the United States from 1927 until the company was forced to declare bankruptcy in 1991.

Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Algot Stenbery (1902—1983) studied at the Hartford Art School, primarily working in gouache and oils. He is known for his book illustrations, including the New British version of "Grapes of Wrath" by John Steinbeck. He was an instructor of drawing and painting at Cooper Union from 1933-40, and the American Artists School from 1940-42.

This is an Original Vintage Poster; it is not a reproduction. This poster is conservation mounted, linen backed, and in excellent condition. We guarantee the authenticity of all of our posters.