~ a superior Renaissance-inspired triangular composition ~

George Mathis (1909-1977) 

 Gemini VII with Frank Borman & James Lovell. December 4, 1965. Their maiden flight, detach, space-pivot & station-keep. A historic maneuver and likely the first time these 'first men to the moon' appear in space. Titled "CLOSE LOOK", it appears to have been painted LIVE for next-day media distribution: included is the 'end product', Aerojet's original 1965 press release & photo. Oil on plywood and signed "A TINKER", Mathis' humorous pseudonym. Large & impressive at about 4ft by 3ft.

Aerojet's public relations offices would have commissioned this painting in an attempt to get free advertising. Hoping the three major TV broadcasting networks (ABC, NBC and CBS) or the two leading newspapers found in every city in 1960s America would cover Aerojet's involvement in the Space program.

$4,500,000.00 US ($4.5mil.)

Of "Houston, we've had a problem" and mission to the moon fame, Borman & Lovell are immortal: first to leave this planet and first to reach the moon. And now (with the discovery of this painting) it would appear that it was George Mathis who was first to capture their first appearance in space.

The original frame was almost-certainly constructed and painted by Mathis so it also has historic value. It is aged and comes apart easily at the corners so it will be shipped in 4 pieces for reassembling. The painting deserves a grander frame.

FRANK BORMAN: Thank you and Rest In Peace.