Basil Smith (British, B. 1925). "John Deere Tractor Model D 1929" Signed lower left. Original Water Color painting on Hot Press Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood Maximum Card for the U.S. 7.1c John Deere Tractor stamp issued May 26, 1989. Before 1870, almost all farm work was done by hand. With the advent of the "traction engine" during the 1870's, however, the farmer's burden began to ease. The "traction engine" was the first tractor -- a large awkward steam-driven machine was soon replaced by a smaller, more practical tractor with a kerosene-powered engine mounted on a four-wheeled frame. Then in the 1920's the all-purpose tractor was developed. The forerunner of today's tractor, this machines only shortcoming was that it was usually manufactured in only one model or size, with no frills and no extras. In comparison, tractors now come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes, with a list of available options that would make any automobile owner envious. Options to enhance speed, power, and operational ease are only the beginning. Air conditioning, the best in stereo equipment -- even a television, telephones, or refrigerators are common features of the modern tractor. Though farming is still hard work, today's farmer has certainly come a long way from the toil of the past! Image Size: 6.5 x 9.25 in. Overall Size: 9.75 x 12.25 in. Unframed. (B12052)