The Fine Art & Collectibles Sale
Lot 50:
Description
8 1/2 x 5 3/4 in (21.5 x 14.5 cm)
Provenance and Authentication:
This lot is accompanied by supporting documentation provided by the consignor. According to the accompanying materials, the signature was reviewed with reference to factors including ink characteristics, material aging, stylistic consistency, and historical context. These materials relate to the reported signature, provenance, and authentication history of the piece, and are presented as received for bidder review in accordance with the auction terms and conditions.
Winston S. Churchill stands as one of the most defining figures of the twentieth century, whose leadership during the Second World War reshaped global history. Beyond his political achievements, Churchill was also a distinguished author and Nobel Prize laureate in Literature, further enhancing the cultural and intellectual significance of his signed works.
This example is The Second World War: The Gathering Storm, the first volume in Churchill’s monumental multi-volume account of the war. As the opening installment of the series, it establishes the narrative foundation of the conflict, offering firsthand insight into the geopolitical tensions and strategic developments leading to global war. Works from this series represent the most important literary output directly tied to Churchill’s legacy.
The book bears Churchill’s signature on the title page, executed in a fluid and confident hand consistent with known examples. The placement is highly desirable, as it directly associates the autograph with the work itself, creating a strong and coherent presentation.
The absence of a personalized inscription enhances the broader appeal of the signature, making it more accessible to collectors across different markets. The signature remains clearly legible and visually balanced on the page.
The book shows expected age-related wear, including toning and minor structural wear, typical for mid-20th century publications. The signature itself remains stable and unaffected, preserving its visual and historical integrity.
From a collecting perspective, Churchill signed books occupy a significant position within the historical autograph market. Among these, signed copies of The Second World War series are especially desirable due to their direct connection to his wartime leadership and authorship.
While first printings command the highest premiums, later early editions remain highly collectible when signed, particularly when accompanied by strong placement and condition.
The combination of a globally significant historical figure, a foundational historical text, and a well-presented signature places this piece firmly within the upper tier of signed historical material.
Overall, this is a highly desirable Churchill signed volume with strong institutional and private collector appeal.
Condition: ALL PROPERTY IS SOLD AS IS, WHERE IS, WITH NO RETURNS OR CANCELLATIONS.
Additional photographs and condition reports may be provided upon request as a courtesy only. Any condition report, catalogue description, image, certificate, report, document, authentication statement, authentication opinion, specialist opinion, or communication regarding origin, date, age, attribution, authenticity, authorship, signature, condition, provenance, or value is an opinion only and not a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Yakon Auctions.
The absence of reference to defects, restoration, wear, damage, handling marks, conservation, alteration, or repair does not mean the lot is free from such matters. Photographs are for reference only and may not accurately reflect color, tone, dimensions, condition, signature details, or the true state of the lot. Buyers should review all images carefully, as they form part of the description.
Provenance is provided by the consignor, prior owner, or most recent owner and may not be supported by records. All reports, COAs, appraisals, authentication letters, provenance statements, invoices, labels, or related documents, including any opinions, analyses, or conclusions therein, are provided as received from the consignor, prior owner, or third party, and have not been independently verified by Yakon Auctions. Such materials are for reference only and are not guarantees of authenticity, authorship, signature, origin, age, period, provenance, condition, or value.
All artworks, antiques, collectibles, autographed items, signed memorabilia, music memorabilia, records, photographs, posters, entertainment collectibles, and related items are offered based on information and documentation provided with the lot. Unless expressly stated, Yakon Auctions has not independently authenticated any signature, inscription, attribution, authorship, association, provenance, pressing detail, edition, period, origin, or related documentation.
Terms such as "attributed to, " "after, " "manner of, " "circle of, " "school of, " "in the artist’s style, " or similar language mean the lot is not guaranteed to be by the named artist, maker, signer, studio, or period. Exact authorship, origin, attribution, or date may be unknown, and the lot may not be included in any official catalogue raisonné, archive, registry, or recognized reference source.
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