Little Miss Sunbeam for the Win by Ellen Segner (NY, 1901-2001), oil on canvas, signed, circa mid 20th century, framed - 29 1/4” x 21 1/2” 
 
Ellen Barbara Segner was born in 1901 and died in 2001 in New York.  She was among the few women in the field of pin-up and glamour art, a domain predominantly occupied by men at the time. In 1942, the Quality Bakers of America commissioned Segner to develop a child-friendly mascot for their Sunbeam Bread brand. Over six months, she produced hundreds of sketches before finalizing the design of “Little Miss Sunbeam,” which became the brand’s enduring symbol.  Beyond Little Miss Sunbeam, Segner’s artistic contributions were extensive. She illustrated the popular Dick and Jane children’s readers, as well as various children’s books, including God Gave Me Eyes, Children’s Prayers, The Little White House, and The Wild Dog of Edmonton. Her work also appeared in prominent publications such as Glamour and Look magazines, Girl Scout guidebooks, and numerous calendars featuring themes ranging from skiing to hunting.