New York Cosmos (Silver Gelatin 24x36)

Named ‘Football Player of the Century’ by FIFA, Pelé is one of the most celebrated football players in history. The only man to win the World Cup three times, the Brazilian footballer had tremendous vision and an electrifying pace, having set numerous records at international level. Hand-signed by Pelé himself, this captivating photograph captures not only his skills on the field and as a player, but the passion and humility of the man behind the legend.

Photographed by José Dias Herrera – a Brazilian photographer who marked his legacy through sports history and who often shot Pelé, recording the biggest moments in history of football – “New York Cosmos” is a Pelé hand-signed limited edition Silver Gelatin on 24x36 artwork depicting world-famous footballer.

Between the 1950s and 1970s Pelé was accompanied by photographer José Dias Herrera, who captured his rise from budding athlete to global icon. Herrera gained unprecedented access to Pelé’s personal life and victories on the field, creating iconic photographs that would shape his image for decades. Pelé at Downing Stadium in New York City for his first game for the Cosmos against the Dallas Tornado on 15 June 1975.

Officially retired since his last game with Santos in 1974, he was coaxed by the North American team to the pitch once again. ‘I would go to New York and bring a little samba to the Big Apple’, he recalls in his 2006 autobiography. This piece is part of the new collection 'Art Life Football: The Herrera Archives', which offers an exclusive glimpse into the formative years of one of the greatest athletes of our time.

Find out more about Pelé or alternatively shop more art here.