Lot # 2320: Joe DiMaggio, Ted Williams, and Mickey Mantle Signed Large-Format Photograph - JSA

This large-format color photo, which probably dates from the 1980s, captures Mickey Mantle, Joe DiMaggio, and Ted Williams posing together at an unspecified formal function. It has been signed by each player upon his respective image. Thankfully, whoever orchestrated the signing of this piece was cognizant of the inherent difficulties posed by the alternating dark and light backgrounds upon which the signatures would be placed. With that in mind, each player was provided with the ideal writing instrument to ensure maximum contrast. Both the Mantle and Williams signatures are beautifully scripted in silver paint pen. DiMaggio's signature is executed in blue Sharpie. While it might go unnoticed at first glance, this is actually an extremely rare photo. The reason: Williams is wearing a neck tie. Williams was famous for his refusal to wear a tie, no matter how formal the function. Even the occasion of his Hall of Fame induction was not enough to change his inclination. During his career, when asked about his nonconformity to fashion, Williams used to say, "I've found that you don't need to wear a necktie if you can hit." This is the first and only photo we have ever seen of Williams in a tie, and it must have been a very important function to warrant such a rare occasion. The photo (12 x 11 inches, visible dimensions) is in apparent Near Mint condition. Matted and framed to total dimensions of 22 x 21 inches. Full LOA from James Spence/JSA. The size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot.