Details:

John F. Kennedy pair of original candid photographs, each measuring approximately 6.5 x 4.5”, depicting the future President aboard a sailing vessel during a relaxed recreational outing. One image captures Kennedy reclining on deck reading while wearing sunglasses and casual attire, while the second shows him seated at the helm with a cigar, providing an unusually personal glimpse of Kennedy away from the political stage. Both photographs are period Kodak enlargements dating from the early 1960s and possess the spontaneous, informal quality associated with privately circulated family and friendship photographs rather than press-issued images.

These photographs originate from the estate of Benjamin A. Smith II, one of John F. Kennedy’s closest lifelong friends. Smith and Kennedy were roommates at Harvard University and maintained a friendship that endured throughout Kennedy’s life. Following Kennedy’s election to the presidency, Smith was appointed United States Senator from Massachusetts to fill the Senate seat vacated by Kennedy. The Smith family remained closely connected to the Kennedy family for decades.

Unlike the formal portraits and campaign images that defined Kennedy’s public image, candid photographs such as these provide a rare view of the man behind the office. Kennedy was an avid sailor throughout his life and often found respite from political pressures on the water.

Good condition overall with expected age toning. Remnants of former mounting tape visible on the reverse.

Provenance: From the estate of Benjamin A. Smith II, Harvard roommate and lifelong friend of President John F. Kennedy, former United States Senator from Massachusetts; accompanied by a signed letter of provenance from Benjamin A. Smith III.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

Premium:
A 25% Buyers Premium Will Be Added to All Winning Bids

Reference sku: 11691 1416394-1