An original vintage American colorful offset lithograph advertising poster for ocean liner S.S. United States and the United States Lines, Worlds Fastest and Most Modern Liner To And From All Europe, illustration by William James Aylward (American, 1875-1956). Circa 1958. William James Aylward was a war artist for the United States Army during World War I. He studied art at the Art Institute of Chicago, at the Art Students' League in New York City, and with several artists in Europe. Like some of the other future official World War I combat artists, he studied with the famous illustrator and teacher, Howard Pyle. Aylward began his professional career by writing and illustrating 18th century marine history for magazines such as Harper's and Scribner's. His artwork also appeared in illustrated editions of Jules Verne's Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea and Jack London's The Sea-Wolf. He combined his interest in the sea and his abilities as an illustrator to produce advertisements featuring nautical themes. In addition to his proficiency as an illustrator, Aylward was an award-winning artist and received a number of prestigious prizes. Vintage and Modern Posters, Illustrations, Graphic Art Prints, and Collectibles.