Justice League America #48

Published in March 1991, Justice League America #48 was a pivotal installment in the Justice League International era of DC Comics. Written by Dan Jurgens with interior art by Jurgens and Rick Burchett, this issue stands as a transitional chapter that balanced the team's trademark lighthearted character dynamics with the looming threat of Despero. It emerged during a time when the title was attempting to reconcile its humorous roots with more traditional, high-stakes superhero storytelling.

The cover art, also by Jurgens, captures the aesthetic of early nineties DC, characterized by kinetic energy and a focus on ensemble team conflict. At this point in the series' history, the title was widely scrutinized by long-time fans who were adjusting to the evolving roster changes and the shifting tonal direction. While it remains a deep cut for general audiences, it is well-regarded by collectors of the late Modern Age for its role in maintaining the narrative momentum of the Justice League during the buildup to major editorial crossovers.