Sold For $5,268
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Iconic matte-finish 7.5 x 9.5 portrait by Alfred Eisenstaedt, affixed to its original 11 x 14 mount, signed and inscribed in black ink on the mount, “For Judge Ben Green—with esteem and warm regards from John F. Kennedy.” In fine condition, with uniform light overall toning from previous display, and a few small dings and creases along extreme edges.
The renowned photographer took this portrait at JFK’s home in August 1960 after he had received the Democratic nomination for president. Kennedy and his staffers found the image to be so ‘presidential’ that it was used by the White House during his entire administration. The original recipient of this particular photo was Cleveland lawyer Ben Charles Green, who had served as chairman of the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections, a trustee of the Ohio Association of Election Officials, and treasurer of the Cuyahoga County Democratic Committee. In October 1961, Kennedy appointed him to the US District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. As Green was never a judge until this appointment, this photograph—inscribed for “Judge Ben Green”—must have been signed after that date, most probably after President Kennedy signed his commission in 1962. Green was renominated in January 1962, and Congress confirmed his nomination the following June, with Kennedy signing his commission on July 2, 1962. Green became a senior district judge in 1976, and continued to sit part-time until his death in 1983. An attractive and familiar pose with excellent political and Democratic association. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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