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Lot # 138: Exceptional 1973 "Roberto Clemente Super Star" Painted Baseball by George Sosnak

Starting Bid: $1,000.00

Bids: 15 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "Invit17",
which ran from 5/23/2017 10:30 AM to
6/30/2017 9:00 PM



Simply extraordinary four-panel decorated baseball by the master of the art, George Sosnak (1924-1992). Quite frankly, the best example we have handled in years, far better than the $6000+ version we sold previously. Entire ball is devoted to "Super Star" Roberto Clemente with bold graphics throughout detailing the career of recently deceased 15-time All-Star. 100% decorated with panels depicting Clemente: 1) "Roberto Clemente Super Star" with Pirate mascot. 2) Clemente in a trademark sliding pose with Sosnak signature, dated 1973 and inscribed "To Chip." 3) Bust portrait with stats & bio below. 4) Making catch with "300" foot outfield wall behind and quote from Casey Stengel: "When I saw our scouting reports on Clemente they rated him No. 1...He accused the scouts of wishing Superman!" Sosnak began creating these masterworks as a hobby, often handing them to ballplayers as non-commissioned gifts. A native of Pittsburgh, Sosnak undoubtedly had a deep affection for Clemente and it radiates from this simply gorgeous piece. Sosnak's intricately-painted baseballs have been on display at The American Folk Art Museum and have become increasingly coveted - and valuable - since his death in 1992.

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