a Soldier’s Thanksgiving, by J. C. Leyendecker. Saturday Evening Post Cover, December 8, 1917 1917

J.C. Leyendecker's "A Soldier’s Thanksgiving" is a striking illustration that graced the cover of The Saturday Evening Post in 1917 during World War I. Leyendecker, a prominent American artist, expertly captured the spirit of the holidays during wartime with a soldier in uniform, holding a steaming cup of coffee and a plate of food. The image evokes a sense of both hardship and resilience, reflecting the experiences of soldiers during the conflict. The soldier's cheerful expression and the festive touches like the holly sprig on the rifle create a poignant juxtaposition that resonates with the complexities of war. Leyendecker’s work, known for its realistic style and captivating portrayal of American masculinity, became synonymous with the magazine, leaving a lasting impact on popular culture.