Historic Musical Photographs and Memorabilia:
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Original Photograph of Itinerant Afro-Cuban Musicians (1890): This rare and striking image captures a unique five-piece ensemble in the kitchen of a large plantation house, offering a glimpse into the early syncretic forms of Cuban music that influenced the development of jazz.
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Louis Armstrong and His Concert Group (1949): A coveted autograph-laden poster from the iconic jazz trumpeter’s first All-Star group. Signed by Armstrong, drummer Cozy Cole, trombonist Jack Teagarden, and clarinettist Barney Bigard, this piece represents a pivotal moment in jazz history.
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Original Signed Publicity Photograph of Sister Rosetta Tharpe (1940): Inscribed by the pioneering gospel musician herself, this 8x10 vintage publicity still by renowned photographer James J. Kriegsmann is a unique collectible, highlighting Tharpe’s influential role in shaping modern music.
2. Rare Books and Signed Editions:
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Leaves from the Four Folios by William Shakespeare (1623): Four disbound folio leaves from the first four collected editions of Shakespeare’s plays, each a vital piece of literary history, representing the foundation of English literature.
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"The Black Jacobins" by C.L.R. James (1938): A first edition inscribed by the author, this seminal work on the Haitian Revolution is a cornerstone of Caribbean studies and revolutionary literature.
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"Grapefruit" by Yoko Ono (1964): A first edition, first printing limited to 500 copies, inscribed by Ono. This avant-garde work influenced generations of artists and musicians, including John Lennon, who credited it for inspiring his iconic song "Imagine."
3. Autographed Letters and Personal Correspondence:
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Six Autograph Letters Signed by Allen Ginsberg: These letters to Carolyn Cassady offer rare insights into Ginsberg’s personal and creative life during the height of the Beat Generation.
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"The White House: An Historic Guide" by John F. & Jacqueline Kennedy (1962): A limited edition, specially bound and inscribed by the President and First Lady, presented to Peter Lawford. This guide embodies a unique intersection of political history and literary preservation.
4. Exclusive Jazz Festival Programs:
- Miles Davis Signed Programme from the Festival International du Jazz d’Antibes (1960): This multiply signed programme features signatures from Miles Davis and his esteemed band members, capturing a momentous event in jazz history.
5. Additional Highlights:
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"New Orleans Jazz: A Family Album" by Al Rose & Edmond Souchon (1978): This second edition is a prized collectible, inscribed by Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts as a birthday gift from Mick Jagger.
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Autograph Letters and Greetings by Arthur Rackham (1934): Including letters discussing business terms and original watercolors, providing a rare glimpse into Rackham’s professional correspondence and creative process.
