One-of-a-kind Indian Statute with Player Provenance

[BradH]

Following the Braves’ move from Milwaukee to Atlanta in 1966, a fan donated this large wood-carved Indian to the organization. As described on the plaque that is attached to the beautiful carving, the purpose of the gift was to serve as a reward to the player who was chosen by his teammates as the Most Valuable Player on the first Atlanta Braves club to advance to the World Series.

In 1991, when the Braves posted their improbable “worst-to-first” season, Mark Lemke was serving as the club’s primary second baseman. After batting just .200 in the seven-game National League Championship Series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Lemke had a stellar World Series in which he hit .417 (10-for-24) with three triples and four RBI against the Minnesota Twins. While the Braves ultimately lost, timely hits by “Lemmer” helped push the Series to seven games and he was named the team’s MVP for his efforts.

More than two decades after it was originally donated to the Braves, the wood-carved statue found a new home with Lemke, who displayed it prominently in his home for more than 30 years.

The statue, which is carved from a single piece of wood and stands more than six feet tall, comes with a letter of provenance from Lemke. I am currently taking offers on behalf of Mark and we’d prefer to sell it via local pick up only (Marietta, Ga). Please send me a DM or call if interested!

Brad Hainje
678-643-7765
Bhainje5@gmail.com