RICHARD AVEDON (American, 1923-2004). Kennedy Portrait, 1961. Vintage gelatin silver. 11-3/8 x 10 inches (28.9 x 25.4 cm...

Description

RICHARD AVEDON (American, 1923-2004)
Kennedy Portrait, 1961
Vintage gelatin silver
11-3/8 x 10 inches (28.9 x 25.4 cm)
Signed and dated by the artist in ink in the lower left corner in the image; inscribed and signed in ink by Jacqueline and John Kennedy
Artist's stamp on the verso

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection, New York;
Gift from John and Jacqueline Kennedy (lot is accompanied by typed letter from the White House) .


During two sessions, January 3, 1961, at the oceanfront villa in Palm Beach, Florida, Richard Avedon took hundreds of
photographs of America's First Family, the Kennedy's. Jacqueline is picturesque, as always, wearing a double-satin Oleg
Cassini gown which she also would wear during the pre-inaugural ball in Washington D.C. Others present at the photo
session included Kenneth Battelle, the New York hairstylist, and an Oleg Cassini tailor. During this time President-
Elect Kennedy was continuing to put together members of the Cabinet, prepare inaugural proceedings, and handle
the severed diplomatic relations with Cuba. In an interview with a Newsweek writer after the photos were published
Avedon said, "When I took Caroline's picture with her father, he was dictating memos to his secretary. When I'd ask
him to look around, he'd stop dictating," But the moment I finished, he'd start in where he left off. I've never seen
such a display of mental control in my life." The images were taken for February issues of Look and Harper's Bazaar
magazines. Seventeen photographs were also published with a small selection released to the Associated Press.


More information about RICHARD AVEDON. See also: Avedon, Richard, Richard Avedon Artist.

*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.