'Devil's Face’ 1954 Canadian Banknotes
This series of banknotes was designed in 1952 following Elizabeth II's accession to the throne after the death of her father, King George VI. The banknotes feature a portrait of the Queen based on a photograph taken by renowned Canadian photographer Yousuf Karsh. The reverse side of each banknote featured a different Canadian landscape — all of them suitably mythic and unspoiled by human activity. More than 3,000 images were considered, and the eight images that were chosen became known as "The Great Lone Land vision of Canada". The banknotes were first circulated in 1954, and almost immediately caused an uproar in England as reports surfaced of people seeing shapes in her hair—specifically the face of the devil. In March 1956, the Bank of Canada announced that it had ordered the Canadian Bank Note Company and BA International to modify the engraved printing plates for all denominations, featuring darkened highlights of the hair behind the Queen's ear. Banknotes printed using the new plates were issued later that year, while the so-called 'Devil's Face' banknotes were stamped CANCELLED on both sides and removed from circulation. The number of existing Devil's Face bills is unknown, but they are still considered legal tender and are redeemable at banks, where they are destroyed upon receipt.
These works are digital pigment prints, printed on Canson rag photographique paper and are accompanied by a by a signed/stamped Artist label and a signed/stamped Certificate of Authenticity.
Paper 17 x 22” - $1,200.00 edition of 25
Paper 24 x 25” - $2,000.00 edition of 20
Paper 44 x 46” - $5,000.00 edition of 15
Complete folios of all Devil’s Face Banknotes are available for sale. For pricing and edition sizes, please inquire via email.