Original César Spadari Cover Artwork At Auction

An original cover artwork by Argentinian artist César Spadari is set to be auctioned at the US-based auction house, Heritage Auctions.

César Aurelio Spadari (1938–2020) was a prolific Argentinian comic strip artist best known internationally for his long-standing work on the Phantom comic series for Team Fantomen, which is published in Sweden and other European countries. From 1987 until his final story in 2019, Spadari illustrated over 90 Phantom stories and multiple covers. He also had a notable career in the Argentinian and European comics industry, working for various publishers and even acting as an agent connecting Argentinian artists with foreign markets.

The upcoming auction, commencing on the 6th of October 2025, presents a full color oil on board artwork measuring 8.5″ x 10.75″ which is partially adhered to a 8.5″ x 11.5″ support board with a vellum overlay. The artwork as found on the Heritage Auctions website can be seen below.

The Phantom is depicted in a blue colored costume (as he’s published in Scandinavian countries), sitting on his skull throne contemplating. The background features elements related to the Phantom’s history and adventures, including a sailing ship and the Phantom dressed as a medieval knight with a skull mark shield fighting piracy. The artwork showcases Spadari’s style, known for its detailed and dynamic portrayal of the Phantom and his world.

The artwork was featured on the front covers of the comic books Fantomen, Fantomet, and Mustanaamio in 2008. Presented below is the front cover of edition number 6-7 of Fantomen comic book, which was published by Egmont Kärnan in 2008.