Mueller, Howard (American twentieth century). Portrait Painting of a Defeated Boxer. Mid-century oil on canvas depicting a dejected, darkly portrayed boxer whose hands are heavily bandaged. Unframed. 43 x 25?. Howard Mueller was a Chicago based artist who taught at the American Academy of Art. He is best known for his commercial work, including illustrations and cartoons featured in Playboy, some of which accompanied stories by Ian Fleming. His Chicago works exhibit day to day life in the city.