This is the Original preliminary art created for the cover of L. Neil Smith's SF novel, "The Venus Belt"  published by Ballantine 1981 (I show the published cover for reference)  One of Darrell's earlier covers, and nicely detailed and executed.... just like a mini-version of the final art seen on the cover!  Handpainted in acrylic on illustration board, 7" x 4.25" and with art directors notes and titled on the back