James Lockhart, considered to be the finest wildlife artist in America, was born in 1912 in Arkansas and when growing up developed a love for wildlife conservation as well as hunting and fishing. In 1933 he moved to Chicago to study art at the American Academy of Art and the Art Institute. His works show great attention to detail and can be seen in many museums and galleries. In 1982 James and his son, David founded the "Market Square Food Company" which allowed his paintings to be reproduced on tins and boxes as well as the decanters and bottles for Jim Beam. Between 1966 and 1983 a series of limited edition glass decanters were issued all bearing paintings by James Lockhart.