Auction Item Details
Lot 518
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Lot Number: 518
Description: Enormous 1924 World Series autographed photograph with Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and Walter Johnson. Notably impressive and likely unique mammoth original photographic display as taken during the 1924 World Series played between the Washington Senators and New York Giants. This image is one of several that were organized and distributed to dignitaries by agent Christy Walsh featuring several of his most notable clients posed at the World Series. The history of this particular piece may be traced to a bar in Rosedale, New York by the name of Killane's. In the 1920s, the bar had been used as a speakeasy and the photo was discovered within by the new owner in 1975. After further research the new owner established that the image had originated from the photographer as used by Christy Walsh to take the photo in 1924 and had been subsequently signed by the players and then housed at the bar. The offered example however is almost assuredly a unique surviving copy in this size variant consistent with family history as the photographer would have the ability to create such a piece. The sepia tone image on board measures an incredible 32"x58" housed in its original wooden frame with incised intaglio decor. Subjects each are identified with small printed label affixed to the image front to include Fred Lieb, Nick Altrock, Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, John McGraw, Walter Johnson, George Sisler, and Christy Walsh. Each of the subjects has autographed the area beneath their respective image ranging from 7-9 out of 10 except for Sisler whose iron ink appears to have oxidized and as such is faded. Babe Ruth and Nick Altrock have been traced over in the period due to fading and Cobb has a small portion that may be enhanced as well. McGraw is secretarial signed. The photo itself has some moderate edge wear while retaining remarkable contrast to the image quality. Frame has some age and handling wear and the original backboards used to stabilize the photo given its large size have some moisture and age wear. Absolutely one of the more unique and impressive autographed mammoth sized baseball photographs that we have encountered. Includes full LOA from JSA and letter of provenance from family of Killane's bar owner: Photo: EX, Signatures: Range PR-NMEstimated Price Range: ($10,000-$30,000)
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