Arlan Ettinger, 1976. 60" x 36", sepia toned acrylic on canvas.

In 1976 at a special banquet at NYC's legendary Gallaghers Steakhouse, the young artist / illustrator Arlan Ettinger was introduced to Mrs. Babe Ruth. Shortly after that encounter, Mrs. Ruth asked the artist to create a painting of the Babe and her, working from a small snapshot that she had been carrying in her wallet for decades. With promises from Mrs. Ruth and Michael Burke, then owner of the Yankees, that the portrait would hang in Yankee Stadium forever, the painting was created.
Months later, the painting was unveiled. (See the photo of Mrs. Ruth, the painting and the artist.) Sadly, shortly after this photo was taken, Mrs. Claire Ruth passed away. Michael Burke then moved on when the Yankees were sold to George Steinbrenner. With those who had committed the painting to Yankee Stadium now gone from the scene, the painting went into storage where it has remained for forty six years.

This is an online only sale. Items may be viewed upon appointment in New York City.

Notice to bidders: More detailed condition reports and additional photographs are available by request. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is in excellent condition. Please message us through the online bidding platform or call Guernsey's at 212-794-2280 to request a more thorough condition report.