Norman Rockwell (1894-1978)

Richard N. Barkle was the Director of Public Relations for Pan American Airlines and during his tenure he was responsible for cultivating business relationships and accompanying notable journalists, entertainment personalities and foreign dignitaries around the world. Before he retired, Mr. Barkle's address book of close contacts read like a who's who of the leading columnists, broadcast journalists and television and radio figures of the day. In 1956, Norman Rockwell was commissioned to complete print illustrations for Pan American to illustrate the top international destinations where the airline flew. Mr. Barkle accompanied Rockwell on the trip and forged a fast friendship with the artist, resulting in the gift of the present painting.