Tom McNeely (Canadian, B. 1935) "U.S. Olympic Team with Flag" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor painting on Paper. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 29c Flag and Olympic Rings stamp issued April 21, 1991. In 1875 a group of German archeologists discovered the ruins of the Stadium of Olympia -- site of the ancient Greek Olympic games -- which had been buried by landslide many centuries earlier. Inspired by the discovery, French educator Pierre de Coubertin campaigned to organize modern Olympic games for the promotion of international goodwill and brotherhood. In 1894 members of an international symposium on amateur sports listened to de Courbertin's passionate plea and voted to form the first International Olympic Committee (IOC). Two years later Athens, Greece, hosted the first modern Olympic Games, which by 1924 included winter competition. Held every four years and interrupted only for World Wars I and II, the Olympic Games allow international amateur athletes to compete for the gold, silver and bronze medals which proclaim them the world's best. Five interlocking rings -- originally representing five continents -- comprise the Olympic symbol. The rings now stand for international friendship, and their colors incorporate at least one shade from the flags of every competing nation. The artwork salutes American participation in the games as a U.S. Olympic team member proudly carries Old Glory onto the playing field during the ceremonial parade of athletes. Image Size: 16.5 x 17.25 in. Overall Size: 19.25 x 25.25 in. Unframed. (B12897)