Immerse yourself in a captivating world of art and romance with this stunning original painting by Tom Miller. The intricate brushwork and use of oil paint bring to life the scene of Jean Plaidy's paperback novel " The Captive of Kensington Palace", a captivating story of love and adventure. The painting is a fine example of Miller's work, a renowned artist in the pulp genre known for his ability to evoke strong emotions in his viewers. This piece is perfect for art enthusiasts and collectors alike, and is sure to be a focal point in any room. Its production technique and originality make it a valuable addition to any art collection. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own a piece of art history. Measures approximately 21" X 28", a copy of the book goes with this original artwork! More information on the artist below.

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Paperback cover artist and painter Thomas John Miller was born in Midland, Ontario in Canada on July 26, 1913. He remained a Canadian citizen for most of his life. Tom's parents died when he was still a young man and he was raised by two aunts who lived down near the American border. The aunts left Tom alone, free to roam and experience the world, and he crisscrossed back and forth over the border as he grew up. Tom realized he had absolutely no one to rely on except himself. As a result, he became fiercely independent. He took care of himself. This independent nature remained with him all his life and he grew up to become a meticulous and independent artist, answering only to his own very high standards.  He never had an agent or manager, always represented himself.

Tom studied at The Ontario College of Art in Toronto. He served in the Canadian Army during World War II. Recognizing his prodigious artistic talents, the Army put him to work designing war bonds and creating propaganda art. He was also asked to paint portraits of “the big brass”. He later told his family that he knew he had an easy military service. While other young Canadians were marching off to battle, Tom's artistic talent ensured him a safe job painting portraits of the generals.

When the war ended, Tom went to work in Toronto. After a failed first childless marriage, Tom started dating a co-worker named Elizabeth Pike. Tom and Liz were married and when Tom decided to move to New York City and become a commercial artist, Liz went with him. He continued his studies at the Phoenix Art Institute in New York City and the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. Tom loved to do portraits, so he studied portrait art with a master of the craft, Archibald Barnes, the prominent British artist who was living in New York. His studies in portraiture paid off, and many of his best later book covers are actually portraits.

Tom joined the Society of Illustrators in 1952. His membership application gave a New Jersey address. Tom and Liz moved around a lot. At various times they lived in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Old Tappan NJ and Westport CT. They had a son named John. Tom went to work at a commercial art studio in New York City, doing point-of-purchase displays and billboard art. He did magazine advertisements and illustrations for Ladies Home Journal.

But his specialty became paperback book cover art. His first cover appeared at the end of 1959, and he contributed many fine covers over the next 22 years.