Bobby Jones Signed Ltd Ed Augusta National Member T. Stephens Print to Spalding FULL JSA
Spalding Staff Advisory Member Bobby Jones signed this very, revered Thomas E. Stephens USGA limited edition #365 posed post-swing 1954 print from the original painting hanging in the United States Golf Association Museum in New Jersey to the company in which he long famously promoted! Stephen's masterpiece was later depicted by President Dwight D Eisenhower and presented to Jones. The a flawless depiction that included Jones's center-parted hair while looking straight at the artist, Stephen's artistic take on the legendary Bobby Jones would become one of the most well-known modern works of golf art. There are inscriptions, personalizations and then there is this heartfelt message to the company in which Jones lent his time, efforts and name to. This relationship started in 1930 post-retirement from competitive golf, designing and endorsing the 'RTJ' club line. Decades later, Jones had been the face of countless Spalding promotional advertisements and publications including the 'Rights and Wrongs of Golf.' This one-of-a-kind signed print is made out to the collective Spalding Sporting Goods Company in black ink just two days preceding the start of The Masters Tournament, and reads as follows.
"For My Friends and Associates at Spalding
With All Best Wishes
Bob Jones - April 5, 1955"
Thomas E. Stephens (1884-1966) was a portrait painter commissioned to paint primarily prominent politicians and Army generals, with his first being Abraham Lincoln shortly after arrival in the United States in 1929. Stephens' artwork has been on the front of TIME magazine and hung in The Smithsonian. Bobby Jones, of course, was the most accomplished amateur golfer ever to play and of course the founder of Augusta National in 1933. Bobby Jones impact on the game both as a player, founder of the Augusta National and the game's ambassador lead many to call him golf's Babe Ruth.
The print remains in near mint condition, tastefully framed and is highly elevated by Spalding Golf Advisory Staff Member Jones' signature. Jones' relatively short career saw him earn 13 Majors, but legendary, and then go on to found Augusta National and the Masters Tournament. James Spence Authentication (JSA) has reviewed the signature and their full letter of authenticity #YY97647 will come with this lot.
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