Focus on Blam (Lichtenstein) and analyze the History.
The painting is based on Russ Heath's art in the comic book All-American Men of War issue #89 (January-February 1962), published by National Periodical Publications.  The painting depicts a pilot ejecting from an exploding plane.  The same issue was the inspiration for several other Lichtenstein paintings, Okay Hot-Shot, Okay!, Brattata, Whaam! and Tex!  The graphite pencil sketch, Jet Pilot was also from that issue.When Lichtenstein had his first solo show at The Leo Castelli Gallery in February 1962, it sold out before opening.  Blam sold for $1000 ($9,674 in 2022 dollars), according to one source, but less than $1000 according to another.  The exhibition included Look Mickey, Engagement Ring and The Refrigerator. The show ran from February 10 through March 3. The work appeared in the exhibition entitled 'The New Realists' at the Sidney Janis Gallery from November 1 to December 1, 1962.
Sidney Janis Gallery comic book Brattata Engagement Ring All-American Men of War Jet Pilot Russ Heath Look Mickey Leo Castelli Gallery National Periodical Publications Sidney Janis Okay Hot-Shot, Okay! Leo Castelli Whaam!