Son of auto pioneer Henry Ford (1893–1943) who succeeded his father as head of the Ford Motor Company. TLS, one page, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, January 5, 1925. Letter to Charles Hughes of the Detroit Athletic Club. In part: “Thank you for the reproduction of the color photograph of our King and Queen Bowl which is to appear in the February issue of the D.A.C. News. The photograph turned out exceedingly well I think…be very glad to have you bring Dr. Valentiner up to the house…would be very glad to meet him and explain to him what I can about the bowl.” In fine condition. Like his father, Ford was a collector—of art, rather than industry—and the bowl referenced, also known as the ‘Rhages Bowl,’ was said to be the finest polychrome pottery in the world, dated to 11th century Persia. Dr. Wilhelm Valentiner, mentioned in this letter, was a German art historian and director of the Detroit Institute of Arts museum. Unfortunately, the bowl—back then valued at $50,000—was smashed when a repairman at Ford’s house accidentally knocked it off of the pipe organ where it was displayed. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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