Presented here is an original Muhammad Ali piece made by none other than legendary sports artist LeRoy Neiman. Ali, born Cassius Clay, was a memorable boxing figure in the 1960’s known for his brash attitude out of the ring and his lightning quick speed and accuracy within the ring. As a professional boxer, Ali would become the face of the sport amassing an impressive record of 56-5. Many of his memorable fights include his knockout win over Sonny Liston, as well as his trilogy with Joe Frazier.

     Ali would draw media attention for his refusal to partake in the Vietnam War draft. Ali would be stripped of his title, and incarcerated, however would appeal citing religious reasons for his refusal and was eventually released. Losing four years of his boxing career, many considered Ali to be a role model for sticking to his ideals rather than conforming to the government’s wishes. Ali was an active participant in the Civil Rights movement.

     This water color portrait by LeRoy Neiman displays Ali and all his glory. Ali is depicted front and center, his arms crossed. He is colored using orange and yellow tones to form his body and face, while his eyes are colored a piercing dark brown, as the bridge of his nose is colored in a soft blue. A silhouette of himself, with his guard up is painted next to himself, using purple to depict shadow, and green and yellow to form his arm. Ali quotes are written all over this piece, and surround the figures. Ali has signed this piece in black ink at the very bottom of the portrait. This piece comes matted and framed, standing 47 ½ x 42 inches. This frame has miniscule chips on the upper left corner and on the upper part of the frame that faces the wall. Neither are fully visible when the frame is adjusted accordingly. This comes with a full LOA from PSA/DNA (AC04403).

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