Lot 1542
Truman, Harry S (1884-1972) 33rd President of the U.S. He was nominated for vice president in 1944 and elected along with Pres. Franklin D. Roosevelt. Roosevelt's death on Apr. 12, 1945, thrust Truman into the presidency at a crucial time-the closing days of World War II. After the war in Europe ended on May 8, Truman authorized the use of the Atomic Bomb against Japan at Hiroshima (Aug. 6) and Nagasaki (Aug. 9). On Aug. 14, Japan surrendered. In the 1948 presidential election Truman won a stunning (and unexpected) victory over Thomas E. Dewey. His term of office was marked by controversy from beginning to end. Among his controversial acts were his decision to use the atomic bomb, the "loss" of China to the Communists, and his firing of Gen. Douglas MacArthur during the Korean War. He was much respected for his plain speaking and for his ability to make hard decisions, however, and during the 1970s public opinion polls consistently showed him to be among the most admired of American presidents.
Lot of three items.
Signature ("Harry Truman"). Signed printed portrait, 8 x 11", n.p., n.d. Black an white photograph of pencil sketch, signed across lapel. Pencil notation verso: "original photograph rec'd from Mr. Long / Sept 23, 1946. Adhesive residue verso with some toning to extreme edges. Very good condition.
Signature ("Greta Kempton"). Signed printed portrait, 8 x 11", n.p., n.d. Black and white photograph of Ms. Kempton sanding in front of her first portrait of President Truman. Adhesive residue verso with some toning to the edges. Very good condition.
Printed portrait of Truman, signed in the plate. Image size: 7 x 9½, sheet size: 10½ x 13½". A lovely, almost-sepia image. Minor toning to edges, overall very good to near fine condition.
Kempton painted five portraits of President Truman and several more of his family, in addition, she created more than two dozen portraits of Truman administration officials and members of their families. A wonderful lot linking artist and subject.
Estimated Value $500 - 600.
Please note the extensive collection of Presidential biographies in our Political Memorabilia section.
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| Realized $299 |
