Vintage matte-finish 10.5 x 13.25 close-up photo of President Roosevelt smiling, affixed to a 15.75 x 19.75 mount, signed and inscribed in fountain pen to a noted photojournalist, "For John Thompson, from Franklin D. Roosevelt.” Framed to an overall size of 18 x 22. In fine condition, with scattered light foxing to the mount.



This classic image, popularly known as 'Smilin' Thru,' was well regarded as a great likeness of President Roosevelt. The recipient, John S. Thompson, covered the White House beat for Acme News Pictures throughout Roosevelt's presidency. Thompson's obituary discusses his close relationship with FDR: 'The late Franklin D. Roosevelt called Mr. Thompson 'my photographer' and he also called him by his first name, 'Johnny.' Mr. Thompson was said to have been the only photographer who followed Mr. Roosevelt's White House career straight through and traveled with the President on all his out-of-town trips.'