Joe Rosenthal 1911-2006

signed by 3 (of the 6) participants in ink on the image, 1945; accompanied by a typed June 1945 letter from Hearst Newspapers Production Director John Shea regarding the photograph (Great News Photos and the Stories Behind Them, p. 91; American Century, p. 317; Eyewitness, p. 118; Eyes of Time, p. 161) (2)

Gift of John J. Shea to the present owner, 1945

This print, on slightly warm double-weight paper with a very slight surface sheen, is in generally fair to good condition. There is wear at the edges, bumped and creased corners, as well as numerous handling and sharp creases, particularly at the left and right sides, and in the area where the soldiers are reaching for the flag. Some of these do break the emulsion. There is a 1 1/8-inch tear at the right edge of the print. In addition, there are two long (7 and 7 1/4 inches), linear indentations at the left side. On the reverse, there is light soiling, age-darkening and creasing.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The present owner received this photograph in June 1945 from John J. 'Ted' Shea, who was General Production Director of Hearst Newspapers in New York.  This print, unlike most early prints of the image extant, typically wire transmissions, is distinguished by the signatures of the three (of six) marines who survived the battle for Iwo Jima--John Bradley, Ira Hayes, and Rene Gagnon.  It is also notable for its large size.  The accompanying letter from Mr. Shea reads in part as follows:

'Attached is a photograph of what now is regarded as one of the most outstanding pictures of the war--namely the raising of the Stars and Stripes at Mt. Suribachi on Iwo Jima.  The Chicago Herald-American on the occasion of "I Am an American Day" interceded with the Navy to have the only three living and remaining members of the six boys you see here pictured come to Chicago to be honored at their American Day celebration.  The three boys personally autographed this picture.

'As undoubtedly this event will go down in history as one of the outstanding achievements of World War II and now you have the authentic signatures of the only three survivors, I think it would be well worth framing this picture as its value will increase with the years you have it.'