The Graphic Arts Collection holds 74 original drawings by the Philadelphia artist Alfred Bendiner (1899-1964). By far the largest is this 4 x 5 foot pastel design labeled on the verso “wine festival,” possibly for The Century Association in New York where Bendiner was an active member.

Alfred Bendiner (1899-1964), Wine Festival, [1953]. Pastel. Approximately 122 x 150 cm. (4 x 5 feet). GC034 Alfred Bendiner Collection. Gift of Alfred and Elizabeth Bendiner Foundation.

Transcription: “Prétendre qu’il ne faut pas changer de vins est une hérésie ; la langue se sature ; et, après le troisième verre, le meilleur vin n’éveille plus qu’une sensation obtuse” (To argue that we should not change the wine at dinner is heresy; the tongue becomes saturated; and after the third glass, the best wine arouses no more than a dull sensation) — Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin (1755-1826)