In the world of baseball memorabilia, there are certain pieces that hold a special place in history. One such artifact is a recently discovered photograph of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, signed by the two legendary players themselves. This remarkable piece, authenticated as a Type 1 original, was captured by acclaimed photographer Arthur Hull, known for his work with The New York Times and The Associated Press. The photograph, which showcases the camaraderie and joy shared between Ruth and Gehrig, offers a glimpse into the golden age of baseball.
The attention to detail and dedication to his craft is evident in Hull’s photograph. The autographs of Ruth and Gehrig are of exceptional quality, a testament to Hull’s meticulous approach to capturing the essence of his subjects. Keith Breitweiser, an acquisitions specialist at Lelands, the auction house handling the sale, emphasizes the significance of this piece, stating that “these are the two most iconic players who ever played the game on the most iconic team. The autographs are some of the nicest you’ll find.”
The journey of this photograph to the auction block is a tale of historical preservation and serendipity. After Hull’s passing in 1969, his collection, including this signed photograph, was acquired by Karl Allison and a friend from Hull’s widow. The acquisition, made for a nominal sum, revealed a treasure trove of negatives and photographs spanning Hull’s illustrious five-decade career. Amongst these invaluable items was the signed photograph of Ruth and Gehrig, which Allison chose to safeguard, storing it away from light and creating a duplicate for display purposes.
Beyond its visual appeal, this photograph represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of sports history. Signed photographs of Ruth and Gehrig, particularly those authenticated as Type 1 originals and in excellent condition, are exceptionally rare and highly sought-after by collectors. As a result, the upcoming auction, commencing on February 25, is expected to generate significant interest from both collectors and enthusiasts alike. It presents a unique chance to acquire a tangible slice of baseball’s storied past.
This auction not only showcases the enduring allure of Ruth and Gehrig, but also emphasizes the importance of meticulous preservation and the significant role that photography plays in capturing and commemorating sporting legends. As this signed photograph prepares to find a new home, it continues to celebrate the remarkable legacy of two of baseball’s most revered figures. Arthur Hull’s lens has immortalized Ruth and Gehrig, and their monumental impact on the game and American culture will be remembered for generations to come.
