B&W, 1961. Silver gelatin print. Framed. John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson at Opening Day at Griffith Stadium, April 10, 1961. This is the site within the stadium from which JFK threw his first "first pitch" to ceremonially open the season. Also pictured are political figures such as Senator Everett Dirkson, Senator Mike Mansfield, and Senator Claude Pepper. Notably Kennedy is pictured wearing a hat, an infrequent occurrence. The photograph is handsomely matted and framed with Neil Leifer's press credentials for the event. Leifer's press pass reads, "Admit Anywhere in Griffith Stadium PHOTOGRAPHER Opening Game April 10 1961. White House News Photographers Association." Pass measures 4 x 4in., and features a significant tear in the bottom corner. In the bygone days of looser security at such events, the tear was in fact a device used by the Secret Service to determine who was in the "tight pool" of photographers, signifying which photographers were permitted in the coveted location closest to the subject. Signed in ink by Neil Leifer. 20 x 16in. Frame measures 19 1/2 x 31in.

This framed work has been professionally framed by Mr. Leifer's preferred framer. The frame is handsome, created in a simple, modern design much preferred by museums. The woods is a light, natural shade; the glazing is a UV plexiglass of the highest quality; the backing board is generally a sheet of foam core. More information on the specific framing can be provided by the auction house upon request.

RESERVE

The photographs in this auction have been examined by an expert, whose opinions pertaining to the age of the prints, the printing process, and the type of paper used, are included in the description of each photograph. Although Guernsey’s believes these descriptions to be accurate, interested buyers are urged to personally inspect the prints either at the public preview or by appointment with Guernsey’s. As with all items in this auction, all lots are being sold as is.

Please note the terms being used to describe photographic prints:

Vintage print: Printed no more than 3-5 years after the negative was made.
Older print: Also referred to by collectors as "printed later." Refers to a print that was made more than 3-5 years after the original negative was made, but not within the 21st century.
Modern print: Refers to a print made in the 21st century from an earlier, 20th century negative.