1958 "Into the Stretch" Original Painting by LeRoy Neiman....

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1958 "Into the Stretch" Original Painting by LeRoy Neiman. Though the legendary sports artist took his first major step into the public consciousness with his commissioned work for the nascent Playboy Magazine in 1954, we cannot recall ever seeing an earlier work of Neiman sports art than this one, signed and dated "'58" by the artist at lower right corner. We suspect that the primary subject is legendary jockey Willie Shoemaker, who is specifically identified in another 1958 work by Neiman, and it was that year that Shoemaker was inducted into the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame.

Neiman historians will surely be thrilled for the opportunity to own one of the earliest works in the artist's signature style, as this oil on board features all the key hallmarks from the daring color palette to the thick paint application. Image dimensions are 11.75x7", matted and framed to 19x14". A hit of chipping to the lowermost edge of the work is only apparent if you look for it, and causes no distraction. The painting's title is listed on the "Franklin Bowles Galleries" label affixed to rear of frame, that establishment having been a leading purveyor of Neiman works for nearly a half century. Full LOA from Beckett Authentication Services. Full LOA from PSA/DNA.