Auction Name: 2025 December 11 - 12 Space Exploration Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 50020

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/6326*50020

Yuri Gagarin Signed Large Photograph Inscribed to General Nikolai Kamanin and Originally from Kamanin's Personal Collection, dated August 24, 1961. A vintage gelatin silver glossy B&W print, 9.5" x 12". A striking and iconic portrait of Yuri Gagarin, shown in Soviet Air Force uniform gently holding a white dove, symbolizing peace. This image, among the most recognizable of the early space age, was taken shortly after Gagarin's historic Vostok 1 flight on April 12, 1961, when he was celebrated around the world as a hero of humanity. It bears a bold inscription and signature in blue ink, written in Russian on the upper right portion of the image. It reads (translated): "To dear Nikolai Petrovich Kamakin, with deep respect and best wishes/ Gagarin/ 24.08.61." Excellent.

On the verso is written in purple ink (translated): "Photo by P. Kardashev. Sochi, May 25." This notation identifies Pavel Kardashev as the photographer and confirms that the image was taken in Sochi on May 25, 1961, shortly after Gagarin's world tour began following his April 12 Vostok 1 flight. Kardashev was a noted Soviet photojournalist whose portraits of Gagarin were widely reproduced in Soviet and international media, this specific dove photograph became one of the most emblematic images of the space age, symbolizing "peaceful space exploration."

Autographs from Gagarin are highly sought after, particularly when dated within the same year as his spaceflight. The August 1961 date situates this piece during the height of his post-flight goodwill tours and international acclaim. The image itself is one of the most famous portraits of Gagarin, symbolizing both Soviet pride and universal aspirations for peace during the Cold War era. A higher quality photo with more significant provenance would be difficult to locate.

Yuri Gagarin's relationship with General Nikolai Kamanin was central to his career as a cosmonaut. Kamanin, who headed cosmonaut training from 1960 to 1971, was both Gagarin's superior officer and mentor within the Soviet Air Force. He oversaw Gagarin's selection and preparation for the historic Vostok 1 mission, ultimately recommending him as the first man to fly into space. Their relationship was marked by mutual respect, Kamanin admired Gagarin's composure, discipline, and social grace. After Gagarin's flight, Kamanin accompanied him on international tours and helped manage his public role as a national hero. From an important collection of Soviet-era Space history

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