Kerouac Jack


Jack Kerouac's Brown Polo Shirt, from his Estate

A shirt personally owned and worn by Jack Kerouac (1922-1969), the famous American writer who brought us On The Road (1957). Provenance: The piece will be accompanied by an estate certification signed by John Shen-Sampas, executor of the Kerouac Estate by descent. John Shen-Sampas is the son of John Sampas, who was the brother-in-law of Jack Kerouac, and the brother of Stella Kerouac, Jack's wife.

Kerouac was nearly 5'9" and had a stocky, athletic build. Judging from his clothes, his head, feet, and legs were larger than average, and he typically wore either L or XL sized clothing. Kerouac prioritized comfort and practicability over most other sartorial considerations. If Kerouac loved an article of clothing, he (or maybe wife Stella) would alter or repair it, sometimes many, many times. Each fabric patch and area of extra mending thus tells a story, and judging from his clothes, Jack lived hard.

The lot includes a large-sized chocolate brown short-sleeved button-down polo shirt with the label removed at the collar. There is a repaired 3" long rent at the center front and some gentle pilling, else very good. Measures 19" wide at the shoulders, and 25.5" long from collar to bottom hem.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

WE PROVIDE IN-HOUSE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE!