11-02-201711-02-2017
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsMarlborough MA
November 2, 2017 10:00 AMCalender
40

James A. McDivitt (American, b. 1929)

Sell one like this
$2,706$2,200
Auction: American & European Works of Art - 3048MLocation: MarlboroughDate / Time: November 02, 2017 10:00AM

Description:

James A. McDivitt (American, b. 1929)
First U.S. Spacewalk, Ed White's EVA over the Gulf of Mexico, Gemini 4, June 3, 1965. Large-format vintage chromogenic print on fiber-based Kodak paper with 'A Kodak Paper' watermark on the verso, image/sheet size 11 x 14 in. (27.7 x 35.5 cm),unmatted.
Condition: Vertical handling crack/crease along right side.

N.B. Tethered by a looping, golden umbilical cord, Ed White moved freely 100 miles above Earth for 21 minutes. Using the guidance gun in his right hand, he maneuvered at will until its compressed oxygen ran out. He thus became the world's first propelled space man. Though orbiting at 17,500 miles an hour, the space walker "had little sensation of speed and no sensation of falling, only a feeling of accomplishment" (National Geographic, September 1965, p. 440). Completely entranced by the experience, he resisted repeated calls from Houston to get back to the spacecraft. 'This is the saddest moment of my life' was his response on reluctantly returning. The NASA negative number is S-65-30429.

Literature: Schick and Van Haaften, cover and p. 35; Chaikin, Space, p. 59; Light, plate 13.

Provenance: The personal collection of Ed White, Heritage Auctions, Space Exploration Signature Auction, Dallas, November 2, 2012, Sale 6082, Lot 40031.
Estimate $3,000-5,000


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords

heritage auctions, Kodak, James A. McDivitt, Van Haaften, Schick Haaften, Dallas, Houston