In the world of baseball memorabilia, there are a few pieces that truly stand out for their historical significance. One such artifact is a recently discovered photograph of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, signed by both players and authenticated as a Type 1 original. Captured by acclaimed photographer Arthur Hull, known for his work with The New York Times and The Associated Press, this photograph takes us back to the golden age of baseball and gives us a glimpse into the lives of two of the sport’s greatest legends.
The photograph, taken between 1927 and 1931 during the Yankees’ spring training camp, depicts Ruth and Gehrig in a moment of camaraderie and joy. The autographs of the two players are carefully and beautifully placed on the photograph, a testament to Hull’s dedication to his craft and the reverence he had for his subjects. Keith Breitweiser, an acquisitions specialist at Lelands, the auction house handling the sale, describes the autographs as “some of the nicest you’ll find.”
The journey of this photograph to the auction block is a fascinating tale of historical preservation and chance. After Hull’s passing in 1969, his collection, including this signed photograph, was purchased by Karl Allison and a friend from Hull’s widow. For a nominal sum, they acquired a rich archive of negatives and photographs spanning Hull’s impressive five-decade career. Among these treasures was the signed photograph of Ruth and Gehrig, which Allison chose to protect by 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, especially those that are Type 1 originals and in excellent condition, are incredibly scarce and highly sought-after by collectors. The upcoming auction, scheduled to begin on February 25, is expected to draw significant interest from collectors and enthusiasts alike, offering a one-of-a-kind chance to acquire a tangible piece of baseball’s illustrious past.
The auction not only highlights the enduring fascination with Ruth and Gehrig but also emphasizes the importance of meticulous preservation and the role of photography in capturing and commemorating the legends of the sport. As this photograph prepares to find a new home, it continues to celebrate the legacy of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, who left an indelible mark on the game and American culture at large. Arthur Hull’s lens immortalized these two icons, and the photograph itself has been carefully preserved over the years, serving as a timeless testament to their monumental impact.
If you are a baseball enthusiast or a collector with a passion for sports memorabilia, this is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. The chance to own a signed photograph of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, captured by the talented Arthur Hull, is not only a connection to the past but also a piece of art that tells a compelling story. Don’t let this iconic piece of baseball history pass you by. Bidders and fans around the world eagerly await the start of the auction, ready to make their bid and become the proud owner of a truly extraordinary artifact.
