Immeasurably influential American poet (1819–1892) whose experiments in radically new forms blended supple rhythms with mystic imagery and celebrated his most profound reflections on man and society. Extraordinary 4.25 x 6.5 Sarony cabinet photo, a character-filled, shoulder-length portrait of the aged poet, boldly signed on the image in ink, “Walt Whitman, 1888.” Whitman suffered a stroke in June of this year that left him infirm for the remainder of his life. The incredible strength and fluidity of the signature is such that Whitman almost certainly signed this photo some time in the preceding months. Some very faint scattered soiling and silvering, and a minor touch of edge wear to mount, otherwise crisp, and fine. Serious collectors need no convincing to recognize that signed photos of Whitman simply don’t come any better! COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
