American composer who melded the jazz idiom with classical music forms in a number of timeless orchestral and stage works, including Rhapsody in Blue and Porgy and Bess. Early in 1937, Gershwin began to complain of blinding headaches and a recurring impression that he was smelling burned rubber. Unbeknown to him, he had developed a brain tumor. It was in Hollywood, while working on the score of The Goldwyn Follies, that he collapsed and, on July 11, 1937, died following surgery for the tumor at the age of 38. Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 Mishkin head-and-shoulders portrait photo of the young composer, signed in fountain pen in the lower border, “Sincerely, George Gershwin.” In fine condition, with silvering to the dark areas of image and background. Gershwin’s enthusiastic signature is quite large and bold. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
