Phillips Hong Kong is set to make history with its first-ever auction of an iconic photograph capturing Muhammad Ali with The Beatles, a landmark event for Asian collectors. This rare offering gains additional significance as it coincides with the recent release of a comprehensive book showcasing photographer Chris Smith’s work with the legendary boxer.
Legendary Photograph Makes Asian Market Debut
The gelatin silver print, captured by Chris Smith in 1964, immortalizes a chance encounter between the young Cassius Clay (later known as Muhammad Ali) and the Fab Four. This limited edition print, numbered 48/50 and bearing the artist’s signature, carries an estimate of HK$80,000 – 120,000 (€9,800-14,700 / $10,300-15,400).
Nick Wilson, Senior Director at Phillips, commented, “This auction presents an unprecedented opportunity for Asian collectors to acquire a piece of global sports and music history. The timing is impeccable, given the surging interest in premium sports memorabilia across the Asia-Pacific region.”
Boxing Memorabilia Collectors on High Alert
The sale has sparked intense interest among boxing memorabilia enthusiasts worldwide. With the Asian sports memorabilia market experiencing rapid growth and global market projections reaching USD 52.62 million by 2032, this auction is attracting serious investors and collectors alike.
“The Greatest” Book Enhances Auction Appeal
Amplifying the excitement surrounding the auction, GOST Books released “The Greatest” in October 2023, a stunning compilation featuring nearly 100 photographs of Muhammad Ali taken by Chris Smith throughout the boxer’s illustrious career. This book offers collectors and enthusiasts a deeper exploration of Ali’s visual history, perfectly complementing the iconic photograph up for auction.
Reflecting on the moment captured in the auctioned photo, Chris Smith recounts, “I was in the gym the afternoon of 18 February 1964, when the door swung open and in walked The Beatles. It was a chance to capture arguably the five most recognizable faces on the planet.”
Unique Convergence for Collectors
The combination of this rare photograph at auction and the recently published book presents an unparalleled opportunity for collectors to own a piece of history while gaining comprehensive insight into Ali’s career through Smith’s lens.
For more information, please visit muhammadaliprints.com.