LARGE VINTAGE PHOTOGRAPHIC PORTRAIT OF FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT, SIGNED BY HIM

ROOSEVELT, Franklin D. Photograph signed. Washington, D.C.: Harris & Ewing, circa 1930. Semi-matte gelatin silver photograph, image measuring 8 by 9-1/2 inches; handsomely matted and framed, entire piece measures 21 by 22 inches. $9500.

Handsome black-and-white photograph of Franklin D. Roosevelt seated at his desk, pen in hand, signed by him beneath the image.

As president, Roosevelt understood photography's importance in creating the public's perception of prominent individuals worldwide. Despite the handicap which prevented the use of his legs, Roosevelt insured that photographs portrayed him in a strong manner: "a vigorous, jaunty, active president engaged in the many activities of his office, waving to the crowds, smiling his infectious smile" (Graham & Wander, Franklin D. Roosevelt: His Life and Times, 328). This image was taken by the prominent Washington studio Harris & Ewing, with their blindstamp in the lower left corner and the name of the firm in pencil beneath the image on the lower right.

Fine condition.