INSCRIBED PHOTOGRAPH FROM JACK DEMPSEY’S RESTAURANT

DEMPSEY, Jack. Original photograph signed. New York: Planetary Photo, circa 1950. Original silver nitrate photograph, measuring 10 by 8 inches, mounted in oblong souvenir portfolio from Jack Dempsey’s Restaurant. $350.

Original group photograph, including Dempsey, inscribed, “To my friend Robert Montagano, Lots of luck Pal, Jack Dempsey.”

Following a record-breaking boxing career (64-6-9, with 49 knockouts) that ended with the notorious “Battle of the Long Count,” Jack Dempsey opened a successful restaurant on Broadway between 49th and 50th, at whose cloth-covered tables celebrities gathered and tourists ogled. This souvenir photograph of the “Manassa Mauler” with Robert Montagano and friends, is boldly signed on the mount. Enhanced by a reproduction of James Montgomery Flagg’s famous painting of Dempsey’s victory over Heavyweight Champion Jess Willard.

Near-fine condition.