Although not highly lauded in his time, Iowa born artist Leslie Ragan (1897-1972) crafted some of the most exquisite Machine Age train images. These works have soared in popularity and price in recent years, and for good reason. The illustrator’s adoration of locomotives is readily apparent in his enchanting depictions, especially this one for the 20th Century Limited, America’s foremost passenger train of the day. The brawny, yet sleek train is seen gliding down the tracks along the Hudson River, along what was known as the “Water Level Route.” Its distinctive aluminum fin (reminiscent of a Roman Centurion’s helmet) cuts resolutely through the air during the sixteen hour journey from New York to Chicago. This is a wonderful image of one of the last century’s most famous trains designed by Henry Dreyfus in the futuristic Art Deco look of the period.