Photo by President John F. Kennedy’s private photographer, Cecil Stoughton, to be revealed tonite, June 1, 2010, at the Art & Artifact: The Photographic Art Center and Keya Gallery / Keya Morgan Collection in Los Angeles.
This historically significant photograph was taken by JFK’s personal photographer, Cecil Stoughton, on May 19, 1962 at the home of Arthur and Matilda Krim on 33 East 69th Street, New York, NY, a few short hours after Marilyn’s legendary performance of “Happy Birthday Mr. President” at Madison Square Garden.
“This is the only existing photo of Marilyn Monroe with either Kennedy Brother, since the others were confiscated by the Secret Service and the FBI.”
The image captures the private relationship between the two historical icons and serendipitously aligns it with one of the most memorable performances ever made by Marilyn. Both of these shooting stars were soon destined to burn out, Marilyn within a mere 8 to 9 weeks after the photograph was taken and John F. Kennedy just a short 18 months later.
A single edition of The Secret Photograph was presented as a personal gift from Keya Morgan to Michael Jackson, leaving only 9 from the limited edition of 10, 30”x 30”, photographs remaining in the world.
Stay tuned as we head over to the opening tonite. Happy Birthday Marilyn!
