Tor has released Michael Whelan’s covert art for the final Wheel of Time book. It has something of a resemblance to Darryl K. Sweet’s covers, but with Whelan’s own vibrancy. The level of detail is amazing, and it has, without a doubt, the best depiction of Rand to date.

Harriet McDougal, Jordan’s editor and widow remarked, “that is the Rand I have waited to see for twenty years.” when she saw the image. And while the artwork clearly has all the earmarks of a Whelan painting, it’s theme and coloration make it a fitting heir to Darrell K. Sweet’s series of Wheel of Time covers.

The announcement on Tor.com has pictures of the front and the full two-cover spread, as well as numerous sketches and concepts from Whelan. Head on over there to see them in their full glory.