Don Balke (North Carolina, B. 1933) "American Elk" Signed lower left. Watercolor on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. Wildlife of the 50 States 22c American Elk/Utah stamp issued June 13, 1987. Standing majestically in the late summer sun, the mammoth bull Elk presents an impressive sight. Antlers measuring some four feet, and a series of loud bugle calls characterize the restless male. Nearby, cows herded together are protected by a single bull. When rivals approach, sharp-tipped antlers are put into action, and the Elks' powerful neck muscles pit strength against strength. The contest seldom ends in injury, the weaker of the two usually trotting away from the fight. Once the mating season ends, Elk gather together in peace to roam their winter pastures. All through the season's cold, Elk are warmed by a woolly underfur and a heavy grayish-brown winter coat provided by nature. In spring, it will be shed and replaced by a new coat, this of sleek, reddish fur, which gives the animal a strikingly handsome appearance in the sunlight. In late March or early April, antlers are shed as the cycle begins anew. Once nearly exterminated by the advance of man, the Elk today has been restored to many places and has been given safe refuge in America's National Parks. Image Size: 11 x 10.5 in. Overall Size: 20 x 19.5 in. Unframed. (B10935)