German rocket scientist (1912–1977) who emigrated to the United States following World War II and assumed an instrumental role in the development of the American space program. Original drawing of Braun, pastel on paper, 14.5 x 17 (affixed to a 17.75 x 19.75 card), signed in pastel or crayon “Wernher von Braun, 7 Jan. ’62,” and also signed by the artist, Tony Rafty. After earning a reputation for his on-the-spot sketches during World War II, Greek-Australian artist Tony Rafty (born 1917) became well known for his caricatures of prominent sportsmen and of athletes at every Olympic Games between 1948 to 1996. In fair to good condition, with mounting as noted, loss to top edge of sheet (touching top of head), a few wrinkles, and scattered surface marks, soiling, and staining (lightly touching “Wernher”). R&R COA.
