Beschreibung:

PRESLEY, ELVIS MEM Two photographs of Elvis Presley taken by William Speer on the occasion of Elvis Presley's first professional photo shoot in July 1955. Both gelatin silver prints, hand printed, backed on card and with one print signed by the photographer. Overall approx. size 20x16". NEITHER signed by Elvis Presley. This pair of photographs comes from the first set of professional photographs taken of a young Elvis Presley, then aged 19. He was sent to William Speer's studio by his first manager Bob Neal, to have publicity photos shot to help his fledgling singing career. Though rarely seen, the photographs are among the most memorable ever shot of Elvis, partly because Vacil Speer, the photographer's wife, was bold enough to ask Elvis to try something different and remove his shirt for some of the shots. She remembers that he didn't look real happy about it. The shirtless poses have become quite rare because Elvis was reluctant to use them in his publicity campaign. These images come from the last batch of photographs printed by William Speer and have come directly from his Estate. This lot comprises a more traditional head and shoulders shot of Elvis (signed "Wm. Speer '59") and an unsigned photograph of a topless Elvis with wooden prop. Some minor edge wear to both (additional light corner wear to first named item) and some occasional light speckling to second image. High res images on request. Viewing highly recommended. Provenance: The Estate of William Speer.