Description
Signed portrait of President Warren G. Harding, inscribed to Senator Ralph H. Cameron of Arizona.
Etched portrait printed on woven card stock, measures 14 x 19 inches. Light toning to cream colored border, water stain along bottom edge, not affecting illustration or signature. This etching by Frederick Pauling was based on photographs of President Harding. At the time of Harding’s death, this portrait was used to produce a commemorative stamp, with his wife noting that it was his favorite likeness. Signed in pencil: “To Senator Ralph Cameron, with high regard and cordially good wishes, Warren G. Harding.”
The recipient of this portrait was Senator Ralph H. Cameron of Arizona. Cameron represented the Arizona Territory as a delegate to Congress from 1909 until statehood in 1912. He then served as Senator from the state of Arizona from 1921-1927. His most notable achievement was winning approval for the construction of Coolidge Dam. He is also remembered for his attempts to develop the Grand Canyon for commercial purposes, but he largely failed.
