Lou Gehrig Yankee Stadium Lobby Display 1973 Provenance 47.5in Photo
TITLE:
Lou Gehrig Yankee Stadium Lobby Display 1973 Provenance 47.5in Photo
DESCRIPTION:
Exceptionally rare, oversized Lou Gehrig photographic display with remarkable old Yankee Stadium family provenance.
The photograph measures approximately 39.25 inches wide × 47.5 inches tall overall and depicts an emotional Lou Gehrig during Lou Gehrig Appreciation Day at Yankee Stadium on July 4, 1939—the occasion of his legendary “Luckiest Man on the Face of the Earth” farewell speech.
YANKEE STADIUM PROVENANCE:
According to the original owner’s family, this photograph was displayed for many years in a lobby or hallway within the original Yankee Stadium.
On September 30, 1973, the original owner attended the Yankees’ final game before the stadium underwent its major two-year renovation. He attended with his two sons. Following the game, fans were permitted to acquire pieces and memorabilia from the stadium.
The owner entered the executive-office area and purchased this oversized Lou Gehrig display for approximately $600—an extremely substantial amount in 1973. The photograph was then displayed in the family home and remained in the same family’s possession for approximately 50 years.
The reverse is handwritten “LOBBY #4,” supporting the family account that it was once displayed inside Yankee Stadium. It also retains an old Greene Gallery label from New Rochelle, New York.
This is the first time the piece has been offered for sale outside the family since it was acquired at Yankee Stadium in 1973.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
The photographic image dates from Lou Gehrig Appreciation Day in 1939. The exact date on which this particular enlargement was produced, its photographer and its printing process have not been independently authenticated.
The item is being represented as the large photographic display acquired from Yankee Stadium in 1973 based upon its continuous family ownership history, the firsthand account of the owner’s sons and the “LOBBY #4” marking on the reverse.
No Lou Gehrig autograph is present.
DETAILS:
• Subject: Lou Gehrig
• Team: New York Yankees
• Event depicted: Lou Gehrig Appreciation Day
• Historical date depicted: July 4, 1939
• Acquired at Yankee Stadium: September 30, 1973
• Purchase price in 1973: Approximately $600
• Reverse marked: “LOBBY #4”
• Old Greene Gallery, New Rochelle, NY label
• Approximately 50 years of continuous family ownership
• Overall size: Approximately 39.25″ wide × 47.5″ tall
• Large framed black-and-white photographic enlargement
• One piece included
• No autograph or third-party authentication included
CONDITION:
This historic display remains in its long-held, unrestored condition.
The photograph has substantial moisture/water staining, discoloration, spotting, waviness and surface wear, particularly along the left side and upper areas. The frame has scratches, finish wear and other age-related marks. The backing and gallery label also exhibit wear.
The condition is clearly visible in the photographs and has been considered in the asking price. Please enlarge and review every image carefully before purchasing. The piece is offered as found, and no restoration has been attempted.
This is a unique opportunity to acquire a monumental Lou Gehrig display with a remarkable connection to the original Yankee Stadium and over half a century of family ownership.
SHIPPING:
Because of the item’s exceptional size, framed construction and value, local pickup is strongly preferred. Professional packing, insured freight delivery or a specialized art-shipping service may be arranged at the buyer’s expense. Signature confirmation will be required.
Serious inquiries and reasonable offers are welcomed.