The most heavily documented Beatles photo we’ve seen. Tied to an important member of the Beatles’ inner circleHere is a spectacular rare original vintage 8x10 black and white glossy photograph of The Beatles that has been autographed by the group in black ballpoint pen. George Harrison has added the inscription ‘To Trudy love from’ above his name and two kiss symbols ‘xx’ below, John Lennon and Paul McCartney have each added three kiss symbols ‘xxx’ below their respective signatures, Ringo Starr has added the word ‘Love’ above his name and three kiss symbols ‘xxx’ below. The signatures were obtained by Bess Coleman, EMI’s press officer in charge of the label’s new signings, namely The Beatles. The photograph comes with a detailed letter from Bess’ sister Trudy that reads, ‘In 1962, my sister Bess Coleman was hired by EMI Records as press officer in charge of new acts, including The Beatles. After they had recorded their first demo, Bess sat with the boys and interviewed them for their biography. Bess described them as four leather-clad Liverpudlians with bad haircuts, and attitudes to match. As the group gained in popularity, Bess spent the next several months promoting the band throughout the UK. In March 1963, shortly before their debut album was released, Bess was kind enough to have The Beatles sign this photograph for me’. In late 1963, Bess Coleman would go on to run Brian Epstein’s soon-to-launch New York operation, Beatles U.S.A. Ltd. She was press officer during The Beatles first visit to America, including their historic performance on The Ed Sullivan Show, on 9th February 1964. Later that same year, Bess served as press officer for The Beatles 1964 North American Tour. After the tour concluded, Bess returned to the UK and worked for NEMS, Brian Epstein’s management company. In 1966, as editor of Teen Life magazine, Bess traveled with The Beatles on their final North American tour. The iconic early image of The Beatles was taken by British photographer Philip Gotlop at his studio on 22—24 Kensington Church Street, London in January 1963. This is a vintage glossy photograph taken from the original negative and developed shortly after the photo shoot. Per the Tracks Ltd., COA, “These original photographs were used in extremely limited quantities, and for a very short period. Indeed, in more than 30 years, this is only the second signed example we have encountered, this one being in far superior condition.” This popular image would be used to promote the release of The Beatles’ second single, ‘Please Please Me’, and their subsequent debut album by the same name. This image is quite unique as it depicts The Beatles with their instruments. Paul can be seen holding his Höfner bass, George is holding his new J-160 E Gibson acoustic, and Ringo is holding John’s new J-160E Gibson acoustic. Autographed 8x10 photographs of The Beatles with their instruments are exceedingly rare and desirable. This is a stunning example, with impeccable provenance from a well-documented member of The Beatles’ inner circle. This is the most heavily documented Beatles photos that we have had the pleasure to offer! Absolute perfection in the world of Beatles collecting! The photograph measures 8 inches x 10 inches. The condition is excellent.
Comes with a detailed letter of provenance, as well as full LOA’s from Frank Caiazzo (The Beatles Autographs), Tracks, Ltd., Roger Epperson (REAL) and James Spence Authentication (JSA).