SENDAK, Maurice. American Express Holiday Shopping Bag. A 1988 “Purchase Protection” shopping bag produced by American Express and featuring full color artwork by Maurice Sendak of three Wild Thing-like creatures as well as two mischievous cats. Measures 18” x 15.5” x 7” and is folded flat as issued without any additional creases.

1988 Holiday Shopping Bag featuring full color art by Maurice Sendak for American Express promoting its Purchase Protection program. On one side is the image of a Wild Thing-like character creating a sculpture while accidentally knocking over a vase, which lies broken beside him. One cat smirks in the corner, while another looks on in amusement from overhead where it is hanging from curtains. On the other side is the image of a Wild Thing-like character playing a cello and not noticing a masked Wild Thing-like character stealing their pearl necklace. The artwork extends onto the side panels, where there is marketing copy about the Purchase Protection program as well as an American Express card in Maurice Sendak’s name (we hope that wasn’t his real card number!) A scarce Sendak collectible.