Albert Einstein “The Elusive Moment of Truth” Signed Portrait – One of the Most Iconic Photographs of Einstein Ever Taken

A black and white photograph, measuring 6.5" x 8", University of Princeton, Ca. 1955. The photo has been mounted on a thicker cardstock, measuring 8" x 9.875" overall. Einstein has signed on the mat below the image "A. Einstein. 55." Photo by Yousuf Karsh (1908-2002) and signed by Einstein the same year that he passed away. Light foxing and soiling to the mat. Boldly signed.

A portrait of exceptional depth – created by one of the greatest portrait photographers of all time – this photograph was taken by Karsh at his 1948 sitting with Einstein. Karsh felt that Einstein’s rough and lined face at once “invited and challenged the camera,” and Karsh consciously sought to wrest a masterpiece out of the sitting. The two men discussed their philosophic worldviews during the session – touching on immortality and “ultimate mysteries” (in Karsh’s own words) -- with Karsh endeavoring to capture Einstein’s sober and serene spirit on film. Depicting a contemplative Einstein with soulful penetrating eyes, Karsh himself described the photographic result of his session with Einstein as “the portrait of a man who had traveled beyond hope and despair.” Karsh deliberately posed and photographed Einstein with folded hands during the session, and the effect in this image is almost “other worldly.” ”There is a brief moment,” Karsh held, “when all that there is in a man’s mind and soul and spirit may be reflected through his eyes, his hands, his attitude. This is the moment to record. This is the elusive ‘moment of truth.’”

Karsh photos signed by Einstein are extremely rare in commerce. Given the philosophic context in which this photograph was taken, it is especially poignant that it was signed in the year Einstein died. It is probable that this photo was one of those given to Einstein by Karsh at the time of his sitting.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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