Each man was a legend in his time, and in his medium; Muhammad Ali, with his deft footwork in the ring, and LeRoy Neiman, world renowned for his handiwork with brush and canvas. The two met and developed a relationship in the early 1960’s, resulting in Neiman capturing many images of “The Greatest.” Contrary to his trademark bold colors and vivid oil strokes, this watercolor image from early in the career of both men sheds a different light. On a plain, white canvas background, The Champ stands defiant in an almost minimalist work in brown paint. The 18x24” portrait is framed in Lucite, signed by Neiman, and captures both artist and subject in an atypical fashion. Includes Letter of Authenticity from JSA and hologram from the Bert Sugar Collection.

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