Ordway, Jerry - Adventures of Superman #436 - Cover!

This original cover art from 1987 is a fantastic piece of DC history, marking a key moment in the post-Crisis Superman era. Jerry Ordway’s work on this title is legendary, and this particular cover for issue #436 is a masterclass in dramatic composition. While the published comic is a classic in its own right, seeing the original art without the trade dress (the titles, logos, and price boxes), reveals just how much more work went into this than most fans ever realized.

One of the most exciting aspects of this piece is the "hidden" art that was obscured by the overlay in the final production. While the comic book version focuses on Superman being carried away, the full board reveals the extensive, detailed rendering of the men carrying him, even giving it something of a suspenseful, creepy look. Most readers have no idea these extra figures were even drawn, making this a unique "insider" bonus that only an original art collector gets to fully appreciate. It’s a rare look at the complete, uncropped vision Ordway had for the scene, showcasing a level of craftsmanship and storytelling that standard publication just couldn't capture. It’s a quintessential piece of 80's Superman history, elevated by the discovery of what lies beneath the surface!