Horace Bristol Signed Ma Joad Photo*

Horace Bristol (American 1908 – 1997) Signed Photo of the Grapes of Wrath series Ma Joad in Front of Cabin - Photo #20 of 50 Limited edition prints. Signed on Matte "To: Mrs John Steinbeck: in appreciation of the opportunity to work with her husband. June 90 - Horace Bristol Matte also signed - Horace Bristol '38 No Glass Image Size: 12.5" x 9.5" Back of photo has a label " 1 Ma Joad in Front of Cabin - 1938 This photograph was taken while accompanying John Steinbeck in the Central Valley of California during the Winter of 1938 in preparation for a photographic book that finally became "Grapes of Wrath" Printed under the supervision of photographer as #20 in Limited Edition of 50 Prints. Signed Horace Bristol In describing her, Steinbeck wrote: "Ma Joad was heavy, but not fat: Thick with child bearing and work. She wore a loose mother hubbard gray cloth...The dress came down to her ankles, and her strong broad bare feet moved quickly and deftly over the floor. Her thin, steel-gray hair was gathered in a spare wispy knot on the back of her head. Strong freckled arms were bare to the elbow, and her hands were chubby and delicate.. her face was not soft. It was controlled. Her Hazel eyes seem to have experienced all possible tragedy and to have mounted pain and suffering." Provenance: The Estate of John and Elaine Steinbeck