American composer who melded the jazz idiom with classical music forms in a number of timeless orchestral and stage works, including Rhapsody in Blue and Porgy and Bess. Early in 1937, Gershwin began to complain of blinding headaches and a recurring impression that he was smelling burned rubber. Unbeknown to him, he had developed a brain tumor. It was in Hollywood, while working on the score of The Goldwyn Follies, that he collapsed and, on July 11, 1937, died following surgery for the tumor at the age of 38. Magnificent vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo by Mishkin of New York, signed in the lower border in fountain pen, “Sincerely, George Gershwin.” Slight bend in lower margin barely touching the signature, a touch of light silvering and a couple small creases to background on right edge, otherwise fine condition. Signature remains as bold as the day Gershwin signed and offers tremendous display potential to some lucky collector! Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
