Hopfen und Malz #8

Jean Van Hamme and Francis Vallès's long-running European saga continues in this 2000 comicplus+ edition, subtitled "Die Steenforts" and set against the promise of New York, 1987. The cover, illustrated by Vallès, presents a striking ensemble of six elegantly dressed figures posed against a vivid red background — a seated man in yellow and a woman in an elaborate purple flamenco-style gown at the center, flanked by four standing figures in tailored suits and formal wear, all radiating an air of wealth, tension, and family drama. It's a beautifully composed portrait that sets the stage for what looks to be a story of power, sophistication, and complicated relationships.