Exceptional matte-finish 4.5 x 6.5 photo of Einstein in a serene head-and-shoulders pose, signed and inscribed in the margins in fountain pen in German (translated): “Dear Robert! My heartfelt congratulations, and thanks for the tears. Does not seem possible it’s been half a century since we were together at Arau! It all went by so fast, yet one would not wish living through it again. Most cordially, Your Albert,” adding a date of April 18, 1949. Also signed and inscribed in the remaining area on the front by his sister, “We lovingly are thinking of you, dear Robert, and wish you much luck. Maja.” The reverse is stamped by photographer John D. Schiff of New York, and also signed and inscribed in fountain pen by two others, “Dear Boby: We are affectionately thinking about you in Princeton—and are speaking about the old time. Alice,” and “Dear Boby—All of us were talking a lot of you today and I too want to send you my most cordial wishes and greetings, Your Margaret.” In fine condition, with some light scattered creases (two to the facial area of the image) and insignificant dings to corner tips. Accompanied by a small leather presentation folder.
The recipient of this photo was Einstein’s cousin and friend Robert Koch. He and Robert had attended the Aargau Cantonal School together in 1896, both rooming with the Winteler family in Argau. The additional autographs of members of the Einstein family make this an absolutely unique piece. Maja, who joins her older brother in signing on the front, is often said to have been Einstein’s only childhood friend. Alice Koch, a cousin on his mother’s side, also inscribes the reverse, along with a “Margaret” who seems to have spent a lot of time with the Einsteins. A spectacular portrait signed by the genius and his family. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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