This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/22/2018
Called "The Beast" because of his impressive physique (one opposing pitcher complained that even his hair had muscles), Jimmie Foxx was one of the most feared sluggers of the 1930s. An integral part of Connie Mack's 1929-1931 Philadelphia A's, often called the greatest team of all time, "Double X" was traded to Boston in 1936. The blockbuster trade was expected to push the Red Sox out of the second division, but despite Foxx's Hall of Fame numbers, remained mired in the cellar. This George Burke photograph, taken during Foxx's tenure with the A's, perfectly captures why Foxx was called "The Beast". Sleeves roughly torn away to expose his biceps, upper torso twisting after unleashing its frightful power, face strained with concentration while watching the ball drive away from his stick, it is one of the best photos of Jimmie of all time. The vintage George Burke print has a beautiful warm coloring from age and the back is marked with the usual studio markings “GEO. BURKE 847 BELMONT AVE. CHICAGO”. While this original Burke print of Foxx is something special on its own, what's more is this beautiful print has been signed in black ink by the Hall of Famer with the notation, "Sincere Wishes to my friend Eddie - Jimmie Foxx". Foxx passed away in 1967 at the early age of 59, thus leaving precious few signed original photos in circulation. This has to be one of the finest. Letter of Authenticity from James Spence Authentication (JSA).