Rare twice-signed photo of Clemens from 1900, with an autograph quotation and an inscription. He has signed once as Clemens and once as Twain. Inscribed Photograph with Autograph Quotation, signed twice: "Mark Twain", "S. L. Clemens". Sepia, 2.75" x 5.75", matted to an overall size of 5.25" x 8.25" (two surfaces). Edges chipped and worn. Photo lightly silvered and soiled. Signature at "Mark T" slightly faded but very readable. Otherwise, fine condition.
At top edge, beginning on mat with signature on photo, is an autograph quotation: "Truth is the most valuable thing we have. Let us economise it. Truly yours Mark Twain". Inscription on lower edge of mat: "Sept. 28/1900/To Mr. Pinhkorn, with the compliments of S. L. Clemens". Photo by H. Walter Barnett of Hyde Parker Corner, London.>
Samuel Clemens (1835-1910), who wrote under the pen name "Mark Twain", attained wealth from his celebrated books and popular lectures, but lost it on unsound investments. In 1900, he was completing a world lecture tour which finally retired his debt. Clemens and his family spent the summer of that year at Dollis House, a country estate close to London, as the guest of English newspaper mogul and parliamentarian, Hugh Gilzean-Reid. Twain was to say of this dwelling: "Dollis House came nearer to paradise than any other home I ever occupied." Clemens signed and inscribed this photo 8 days before his return voyage to America. The autograph quotation is from a chapter heading from "Pudd'nhead Wilson's New Calendar" in his 1897 travelogue, Following the Equator.