Dr. Arthur Carr, New York (acquired directly from the artist)
Acquired by the present owner from the above

New York, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, Word and Image, December 1965 - January 1966

Elizabeth Sverbeyeff, "Life with Pop," New York Times Magazine, May 2, 1965, pp. 98-99, illustrated in color (installation view)

This work is in very good condition overall. The surface is bright, fresh and clean. There is very light evidence of wear and handling toward the edges and one pinpoint accretion in the first letter "E." Under Ultraviolet light inspection, there is no evidence of restoration. Framed.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

"One of my paintings is called Le Premier Homme and this is a painting which was inspired by Gargarin's space flight, and I suppose subconsciously in order not to make it too sympathetic to the Communist propaganda, I decided to call the painting by its French title. And it came directly from the cover of a French magazine, and I liked the phrase. " -Robert Indiana