George Harrison to Alistair Taylor Archive Including a Handwritten Signed Letter, a Large Signed Photo, and a Signed Christmas Card. This lot contains four fabulous items sent from George (and wife Patti) to Alistair at various times in the 1960s. As follows.
Autograph Letter Signed: From "America" and dated "Sunday the Something". By context, it was almost certainly written during the Beatles American tour, August 19 - September 20, 1964. Taylor was Beatles Manager Brian Epstein's personal assistant and for years was known as "Mr. Fix It" in the Beatles inner circle. He was always there to do personal favors, expedite real estate deals, and handle various other logistical matters. Here, George asks him for a favor. The one and one half page letter is on plain paper and reads, in full: "Dear Alistair, I hope you are O.K. Will you do me a favour please? This enclosed photo [see item below] is from a United Artists Song album which is out over here, and I would like you to find the photographer or whoever has the negative, and get him to make me a blow up of me about 5 ft. high. You may think this is very strange, but don't worry I haven't gone mad yet! If you can get it done and keep it at the office until I get back, then I will fix you up with whatever it costs. I have just thought, could you have it mounted on cardboard that wont bend. -Thanks. It's the funniest picture I have seen for some time and I couldn't resist a big one for my front door! The tour and everyone are/is (take your pick) O.K. and send their regards. Give ours to your wife, and also best of luck to you too! See you soon. George (Harrison) Remember Me?" Fine condition.
Signed Photo: An 8.25" x 13.25" B&W mat-finish photo of Harrison giving a gesture that would be considered quite rude in the UK It is humorously signed at upper right: "To Alistair 'Why Don't You' ..........!!! George (Harrison)". One wonders if Alistair was able to get the five foot enlargement done for George's door. Lightly creased at bottom, generally fine.
Signed Christmas Card: We don't know about the photo on George's door, but we do know that he used the same photo for the front of this Christmas card of 5.5" x 8.5" (folded). On the inside is printed: "Don't be offended. Be happy 'cos it's Christmas". It is signed by George: "Without whom, it would not have been possible___.... George + Pattie". Very fine.
Signed Christmas Card by Pattie: A 4.5" x 6.25" (folded) card with an image of an antique page from a Missal found in the Victoria and Albert museum. It is signed on the inside by George's wife: "from George and Pattie". Very fine.
A unique and interesting grouping. From the Joe Pope Archive. COA from Heritage Auctions.