Mar 31, 2001, The B. H. Manuscript/Collectible/Philatelic Sale, Sale 9
Lot 950
Garland, Judy
(1922-1969) Legendary American singer and film actress, she is best
remembered for her role as "Dorothy" in The Wizard of Oz, for which
she won a special Academy Award. Her troubled personal life and struggles
with substance abuse occasionally overshadowed brilliant performances but
she remained one of the most popular entertainers of her day.
Signature ("Judy Garland"). Twenty-one pages, octavo, New
York, December 1951. Being a signed program for "Judy Garland's RKO Palace
Two-A-Days". Also signed by Ricky Riccardi, Bert May and Hugh Martin. Pages
are loose, but none missing, there is fraying at the edges, very small
amounts of paper loss at edges, age toning. Overall, condition is very
good.
Judy Garland's run at The RKO Palace Theater was a true high
point in her turbulent life. After being released by MGM in 1950, Garland
went to England and wowed sold out crowds at The London Palladium for weeks
on end. Her triumph in Europe made her eager to return to the American
stage and the show that opened at the Palace in October 1951 was a major
hit, with police barricades holding back 5,000 fans who filled Times Square
on opening night. Returning to her vaudeville roots, Garland sang and
danced for standing room only audiences that welcomed every song with wild
applause and ended every show on their feet.The show continued to run for
an unprecedented nineteen weeks and firmly established Garland as one of
the greats of the stage as well as the screen.
Estimated Value
$400-500.
Lot 951
Garland, Judy.
Check Signed ("Judy Garland"). Partially printed, accomplished
in typescript. 7¼ x 3¼", Beverly Hills, March 20, 1964. Drawn
on her account at the City National Bank of Beverly Hills and made payable
to Lynn S. Blackburn in the amount of $135. Endorsement and bank stamp on
verso. Cancellation on recto overlays, but does not obscure, signature and
minor toning. Otherwise, fine condition.
1964 was a hard year for
Judy Garland -- she was deeply in debt, a tour in Australia had ended very
badly, and her television show was cancelled in March (the last taping was
just one week before our check was written).The Judy Garland Show, which
provided many famous performances of Garland's standards, was a commercial
failure. The show went on to win four Emmys, but the cancellation was a
major blow to the already fragile star.
Estimated Value $400-500.
Lot 952
Garland, Judy.
Signature ("Judy Garland") One page, 7½ x 5", Los
Angeles, 1958. Being a postcard from "Garland at the Grove". Signed in blue
ink. One vertical crease does not affect signature, otherwise, fine
condition.
"Garland at the Grove" was Judy Garland's hit July 1958
show at the Ambassador Hotel's Cocoanut Grove. The two-week run was so
successful, the last performance was recorded and released as an album. The
late 1950s had been tough years for Garland as drug use, family turmoil and
financial difficulties plagued her, but the shows at the Grove were
triumphs and reinvigorated the star -- Judy's first engagement at the
Grove, as a nine-year old, was also a big success and she was twice invited
back.
Estimated Value $200-300.
Lot 953
Grant, Cary. Typed
Letter Signed ("Cary Grant"). On a single quarto sheet, Beverly
Hills, November 20, 1954. On his personalized stationery. Signed in black
ink. To an acquaintance, "Tom". With two horizontal folds, scattered soft
folds, and a soil mark at the upper left edge. In very good
condition.
Here, the debonair star attempts to rectify a
misunderstanding with his construction worker, making arrangements to
fairly compensate his much appreciated work. He writes: "I think it only
fair that ... the enclosed amount should be considered as payment for added
work." Later he adds: "This note gives me an opportunity to tell you of
Mrs. Grant's and my respect and appreciation for your efficient, excellent,
and conscientious work."
Estimated Value $350-450.
Lot 954
Griffith, D.W
(1875-1948). Influential film director known for his innovative
understanding and ground breaking usage of techniques such as changing
camera angles, intercutting, crosscutting, parallel action, dramatic
lighting, the close-up and full shot. His monumental epic "The Birth of a
Nation" first demonstrated cinema as an art form and was followed up by the
equally influential, though less successful, "Intolerance". After such
grandiose success, Griffith joined Douglas Fairbanks, Mary Pickford and
Charlie Chaplain to form the United Artists Corporation.
Inscribed
Photo Signed ("D.W. Griffith"). Black and white, 7½ x
9½", n.p., n.d. Inscribed in black ink "Sincerely". Stamped
"Photo by Hoover Art Co. Los Angeles" at the lower left. A few very minor
surface abrasions and silvering to the edges. Still, in very fine
condition.
This rare signed photo pictures the legendary director
delicately back-lit with a confident pose.
Estimated Value $850-1,250.
Lot 955
Hart, William S
(1870-1946). Actor. Born in Newburgh, New York, Hart began his acting
career with an apprenticeship in stage, preferring Shakespearean work. Hart
however, is best known as a star of Western films though he did not enter
the genre until age 48.
Autograph Letter Signed ("Bill
Hart"). On a single, quarto sheet, Newhall, California, December 21,
1933. On his personal stationery. In black ink. To his personal
acquaintance, "Arlene". With one horizontal and two vertical folds. In very
good condition.
The Western star writes a cheery letter to a
recovering friend, with references to his trusty horse: "Your letter is
beautiful but don't let it keep you from making the trip out here! You'll
enjoy M(?), she weighs fifteen hundred pounds now! Doggone her. Here's
hoping you have a quick recovery. Your FRIEND".
Estimated Value
$200-300.
Lot 956
Hepburn, Katharine
(b. 1907) American actress whose distinctive style, combined with New
England grit and strength of character, provided innovative and memorable
performances on stage and screen.
Autograph Letter Signed
("Kate"). Two pages, recto, octavo, May 19, 1983. On personalized
stationery, in black ink. To Mildred, an acquaintance. Horizontal fold. In
fine to very fine condition.
In this wonderfully informal letter
from the American icon, Hepburn replies to inquiries about her health
following a rather serious injury: "...The ankle improves daily -- I
walk garden- bicycle- swim- it gets sore and a bit swollen by day's end but
has good range & all in all I consider that I was lucky considering the
seriousness of the injury -- Phyllis too is fine -- it's really the first
vacation she's had in years..."
Estimated Value $350-450.
Lot 957
Jones, Tommy Lee
(b. 1946). Actor. With his rugged and tough appearance, Jones has
gained a reputation for playing explosive characters in both lead and
supporting roles. Films include: JFK, The Fugitive,
Natural Born Killers, and Men In Black.
Typed
Document Signed ("Tommy Lee Jones"). Eight pages, quarto, n.p., n.d.
On an "Actor's Theatrical Engagement Agreement". In black ink. Staple marks
at upper left of each page. In very good condition.
In this eight
page contract, Jones agrees to appear with Kathleen Turner in a film titled
House of Cards. Along with provisions regarding salary, expenses,
and advertising for the film, the contract also provides for Jones to
finish responsibilities relating to the film JFK, which may conflict
with the proposed filming plans.
Estimated Value $150-200.
Lot 958
Kern, Jerome
(1885-1945). Composer and creator of stage musicals and popular songs
for film including "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes" and "A Fine Romance".
Typed Letter Signed ("Jerome"). On a single quarto sheet,
Beverly Hills, May 8, 1941. On his personalized stationery. In black ink.
To Mr. Robert Wachsman, Kern's agent. Accompanied by a First Day of Issue
Commemorative Card, as well as a Certificate of Authenticity from Heroes
and Legends. With two horizontal creases. In very good condition
overall.
In response to his agent's request for a copy of one of his
plays, Kern writes: "Please refresh my memory. What on earth do you want
with the play script of "Music in the Air?" I have a copy here, but I am
not sure whether it belongs to me or to Twentieth Century-Fox..." He
agrees to send the play, and adds an additional financial note:
"Business in our rummy department has been pretty slow, owing to heavy
tax burdens and the war scare. So any trade you can give us will be much
appreciated..."
Estimated Value $400-500.
Lot 959
Laurel and Hardy.
Signed Photograph ("Stan Laurel" and "Oliver Hardy").
Black and white, printed on postcard back, 5½ x 3½", n.p.,
n.d. Signatures in blue ink on white margin, inscribed in Laurel's hand,
"Hello Harold!" Minor soil at left, one shallow scratch at shoulder
level, corner wear. Very good condition.
A beautiful photograph of
one of the great comedy teams of all time.
Estimated Value $400-500.
Lot 960
Laurel, Stan
(1890-1965). Actor. Born unto acting parents, Laurel became Charlie
Chaplain's understudy at age 20 for Chaplain's first two American tours. He
then began working in vaudeville shows which lead to a film role teaming
him with Oliver Hardy. Thus their appearance began a comedic partnership
that would been seen in over 75 films.
This extensive archive of
memorabilia pertaining to Stan Laurel includes a variety of newspaper
clippings, family photos, and international correspondence. Presumably
collected by Mrs. Lucille Hardy, this collection includes a scrapbook
featuring pictures of the comedy duo at a variety of functions -- the pair
are seen signing autographs for a priest, at dinner parties, on trains,
cutting a birthday cake, and in crowds. Several programs are also included.
Accompanying a variety of newspaper articles and family snapshots are two
copies of the book entitled The Laurel & Hardy Scrapbook chronicling
the careers of the funnymen, signed by author Jack Scagnetti. Conditions
range. Bidders are strongly encouraged to view this lot.
Estimated
Value $200-300.
Lot 961
Leigh, Vivien
(1913-67). Actress, best known for her portrayal as Scarlett O'Hara in
the film Gone with the Wind. In 1940, Leigh married Laurence Olivier
however, the thespians divorced twenty-one years later.
Autograph
Note Signed ("Vivien + Larry"). On a single, duodecimo sheet, n.p.,
n.d. Being a personalized "Sir Laurence & Lady Olivier" calling card. In
blue ink. To Garson Kanin. Accompanied by the original envelope. The
envelope was opened across the top, with paper loss to one corner. In
excellent overall condition.
Here, Miss Leigh adds birthday
greetings to her calling card, writing on behalf of her husband,
"Darling our loving wishes for your birthday. Thank you for being here
on it and for letting us be with you."
Estimated Value $300-400.
Lot 962
Lewis, Jerry Lee
(b. 1935) Rock and Roll pioneer. Lewis' fiery musicianship, charisma
and talent made songs like "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On" and "Great Balls
of Fire" major hits. A scandalous marriage to his thirteen year old cousin
(twice removed) Myra, tumultuous remarriages and a history of arrests for
drug, weapons and tax offenses marred his professional successes and Lewis'
career never really took off, in spite of its promising start. In the face
of personal and professional struggles, Lewis maintained a loyal fan base
continues to follow his career, turning out in droves to see him perform.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986.
Featuring
fourteen items, this great archive highlights Jerry Lee Lewis' professional
and personal life. The gem of this collection is a 1961 autograph letter
from Lewis to his young wife, Myra. Addressed to both Myra and their son
Steve (who later drowned in their swimming pool), the letter reads, in
part: "...Sure would like to see you, miss you very much, as a matter of
fact too much. My shows are doing fine up to now, hope they keep on going
darling I sure love you... wish you could be with me...nothing to do around
here in the day time just lay around and watch T.V. and think about you...I
love you too much miss you too much, looking fordord [sic] to seeing
you...your husband for ever and ever The Great Jerry Lee Lewis." The
letter is in great condition, written in blue ink on stationery from The
Westbury in Toronto. The transmittal envelope, addressed in Lewis' hand to
"Mrs. Jerry Lee Lewis" is also included.
The lot includes
Lewis' Social Security card, signed in pencil -- the card shows significant
age toning but is in very good condition. Jerry Lee Lewis' 1961 Louisiana
driver's license, filled out and signed in blue ink, shows some ink
bleeding (from being in a sweaty singer's pocket?) but is in very good
condition. There are two Monroe Federation of Musicians cards, one from
1959 and one from 1962; the 1962 card is signed in black ink. A membership
card from the El Rancho Private Club in Chickasha, Oklahoma, shows Lewis as
a member in good standing (although the card "may be revoked if Club rules
are not observed") in 1962, and he has signed in blue ink. Lewis' 1969
Tennessee Vehicle Registration card (he was driving a Lincoln Continental
Mark III) is signed in pencil. The lot also includes a 1964 contract for
performances at Monreal's Club in Milwaukee, signed "Jerry Lee Lewis"
and a signed 1967 contract for performances at Rio Palm Isle in
Longview, Texas. The Rio Palm Isle contract features song lyrics on the
verso: "They just keep on a calling & just won't let me be. Echoes they
keep calling..." A contract rider (without the original contract) has been
initialed by Lewis, "J.L.L." and a handwritten addendum is cause for
a few chuckles, as Lewis' reputation must have preceded him: "Mr. Lewis not
to damage Piano If he does he forfeits Pay." Lewis has signed a flyer
advertising three shows at the Palomino, a black and white publicity still
and a 1967 Catch My Soul playbill from the Ahmanson theater. The
playbill is signed "2 Jackie a real friend keep Rocking see you soon
Jerry Lee Lewis." Catch My Soul was a rock and roll version of
Othello with Lewis as Iago. The final piece, a legal document from
1979, authorizes (then wife) Jaren Lewis to have power of attorney while
Lewis was in the hospital, one of his many hospitalizations of the 1970s
and 1980s. Today, Lewis continues to tour in Europe and the United States,
drawing legions of loyal fans and proving himself to be one of the most
enduring musicians of the 20th century. This archive is a must for any rock
and roll collector.
Estimated Value $3,000-4,000.
Lot 963
Lillie, Beatrice
(1894-1989). Actress and singer, Lillie became the "toast of two
continents" as a comedienne of revues and plays in both England and
America.
Collection of thirty checks signed by Beatrice Lillie
Peel. Lillie signs each check, "Beatrice (Lillie) Peel". Each
partially printed, accomplished in manuscript. Dating from February 12,
1932 through October 27, 1967 drawn on Peel's accounts at the Corn Exchange
Bank Trust Company, Empire Trust Company, and Barclays Bank Limited in
England. Most stamp cancelled verso, Empire Trust Company checks are stamp
cancelled recto. Several checks creased from handling with a few tears.
Overall, the group is in very good condition.
Interestingly, Mrs.
Peel had a tendency to write checks for even dollar amounts -- only six of
these checks is written for an amount with change. And it appears that
February 12, 1932 was a payday as Lillie wrote checks totalling nearly
four hundred dollars, each payable to an individual.
Estimated Value
$200-300.
Lot 964
Linkletter, Art.
Signed Book ("Art"). People Are Funny. Garden City, New
York: Doubleday & Co., 1947, 273 pages, 5 x 7½". Hardbound, house in
slipcase. Toned, but still in very good condition.
Linkletter's
book, titled after his television show, details the behind-the-scenes
antics of the host as he coaxed his audience into a variety of unusual
acts. Here, Linkletter pens the lengthy inscription: "For Jackie
'Whoosh' Robinson who moisturized me thru a couple of dry seasons -- & who
will undoubtedly be the 'Man of the Year' in 1948 if he doesn't blow his
brains out first! Best wishes --".
Estimated Value $200-250.
Lot 965
Loos, Anita
(1893-1981). Screen writer and novelist. Born in Mount Shasta,
California, Loos began her career early -- as a child actress on both stage
and the silver screen. By age 20, she was an accomplished screen writer,
talented enough to attract the attention of D.W. Griffith, and work on his
epic film Intolerance. Her first novel, entitled Gentlemen
Prefer Blondes, began as a serial in Harper's Bazaar and made
her an international celebrity.
Autograph Note Signed
("Anita"). On a single duodecimo sheet, n.p., n.d. Being her
personalized calling card. In blue ink. In very good to excellent
condition. Ink has smeared just slightly affecting the final letter of
Anita's name. Otherwise, in fine condition.
After an entertaining
evening, Loos left this calling card to her hosts, writing: "Darling,
what a party! Endless gratitude and love".
Estimated Value
$100-150.
Lot 966
MacRae, Gordon
(1921-1986). Actor and singer who appeared in such screen musicals as
Oklahoma! and Carousel.
Here we offer a collection of
financial and legal information pertaining to Kintail Enterprises, Inc. --
a corporation for which Gordon MacRae served as President. Collected
in a burgundy leather bound spiral notebook, this archive begins with a ten
page listing of the by-laws of said corporation. Also included are the
minutes from the corporation's meetings dating from 1956-1960, each signed
by Gordon MacRae, Harland N. Green, and Jerome B. Rosenthal. Most minutes
pertain to the scheduling of meetings, the authorization to open a bank
account, and the authorization to sell stock. Whereas the purpose of this
business arrangement remains unclear, it was obviously meant as an
investment. Pages are lightly toned, but this abundance of material signed
by MacRae -- his autograph appears some 19 times -- is in very good
condition.
Estimated Value $250-UP.
Lot 967
MacRae, Gordon.
Follow the footsteps of a Hollywood star with this 1953 daily journal
belonging to Gordon MacRae. For each day, MacRae detailed not only
his activities, but also his expenses -- providing a rare and revealing
glimpse into the true life of the rich and famous. MacRae's
handwritten notations appear on each page as the book is filled with the
juicy details and mundane tasks of his real life. This meticulous
accounting also lists how much MacRae paid for most meals, snacks, drinks,
and tips and is filled with receipts and ticket stubs from his travels. An
avid card player and gambler, the actor also notes his wins and losses --
including the $25,000 he lost in Vegas just before Thanksgiving. Hard bound
in red cloth, the journal has been personalized with MacRae's name on the
verso. Boards are curved from the abundance of added receipts and
brochures, spine is worn, and cover is slightly soiled.
Estimated Value
$250-UP.
Lot 968
Mansfield, Jayne
(1933-1967). Bosomy blonde actress known as the poor man's Marilyn
Monroe. Mansfield was tragically decapitated in a highway accident.
Typed Letter Signed ("Jayne"). On a single, quarto sheet,
Los Angeles, March 10, 1962. On Mansfield's personalized pink stationery.
In black ink. To columnist Hy Gardner. Two horizontal folds, a 1/4" tear at
lower center edge, a 3/4" fold at lower right edge. In very good
condition.
In response to an article written by Hy Gardner, the
sultry star comments on the importance of her family in relation to
stardom: "I have just received a copy of your column... Mickey and I are
very grateful to you for your confidence and trust in us...I have done many
things in the interest of publicity -- but nothing that would bring harm or
worry to anyone. I'm just not built that way. My aim is to give comfort and
enjoyment to my family -- not misery and worry -- and we both thank you for
what you had to say."
Estimated Value $300-450.
Lot 969
Marx Brothers.
Comedy team of brothers Chico, Harpo, Groucho, and Zeppo. From an early
age the siblings began their careers as a vaudevillian singing troup. Their
popularity soared after the foursome transitioned into a zany comedic act
with the films Duck Soup and A Night at the Opera.
Signatures ("Groucho Marx", "Harpo Marx", and
"Chico Marx"). On a single, 5 x 5¼" sheet, n.p., n.d. In
purple ink. Paper is lightly toned. In excellent condition.
Three of
the wise-cracking brothers lend their names to this page, a wonderful
memento likely taken from a scrap book.
Estimated Value $500-750.
Lot 970
Marx, Gummo
(1893-1977). The fifth Marx Brother, Gummo was a prominent figure
performing as a singer in the family's early vaudeville act. Gummo left the
team before reaching Broadway, and was replaced by Zeppo.
Endorsed
Check ("Gummo Marx"). Partially printed, accomplished in typescript.
9 x 3", Beverly Hills, July 31, 1950. The check is drawn on the account of
trustees Beilenson, Rosenthal & Norton at the Farmers and Merchants
National Bank of Los Angeles in the amount of $4,805. Marx signs the check
verso, endorsing it: "Pay to order of Columbia Broadcasting Systems
Inc". Punch cancelling, stamped verso, none of which affect the hand of
Marx. Overall, in very good to fine condition.
After returning from
service in the army, Gummo worked with his brother Zeppo as a talent agent.
This check was issued as payment for the reimbursement of expenses from
NBC, likely compensation for his professional services.
Estimated Value
$200-250.
Lot 971
Mayer, Louis B
(1885-1957). Hollywood executive. Mayer began his career in the movies
by buying a small theater to show top quality films. He began to invest in
additional theaters and soon Mayer owned a small chain of theaters in New
England. Eventually, he delved into the production aspect of filmmaking,
opening his own studio in Los Angeles in 1924. After a merger with Marcus
Loew, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer was formed. Mayer, however, was able to retain
the positions of vice president and general manager.
Typed Letter
Signed ("Louis B. Mayer"). One page, quarto, Culver City,
California, August 26, 1924. On Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer letterhead. In black
ink. To art director A. Cedric Gibbons. Accompanied by Cedric's original
three page contract, and five pages of previous renewal agreements.
Gibbons' signature appears on this document and the previous year's
renegotiations. Pages are stapled, with two horizontal folds, two hole
punches at top edge, slight toning. Still, signatures are clear and bold.
In fine condition overall.
Re-negotiating a contract, Louis Mayer
writes: "This is to advise you that the term of your employment under
your contract with us ... is, extended for the term of one (1) year ... at
a salary or compensation of Four Hundred Seventy-Five Dollars ($475.00) per
week". Gibbons, the designer of the Oscar statuette who received eleven
of the awards for his work as an art and set director, signs the contract
in agreement, with Mayer.
Estimated Value $350-UP.
Lot 972
Moore, Demi (b.
1963). Actress. At the age of 16 Moore left school to become a "star".
After posing nude for a foreign magazine, she landed a part on the popular
soap-opera "General Hospital", and has since become one of Hollywood's
highest paid actresses.
Typed Document Signed ("Demi
Moore"). Three pages, quarto, Los Angeles, November 19, 1981. On ABC
Television stationery. In black ink. To Edgar Small of Artists Career
Management. Staple holes at upper left of each page. In very good to
excellent condition.
Here, in a letter from the ABC program attorney
to Moore's management company, the budding actress signs what may be her
first television agreement, to appear in the daytime drama "General
Hospital". Among the conditions is a provision allowing the actress to be
written out of the series, albeit temporarily, in order to work on other
film projects.
Estimated Value $150-250.
Lot 973
Olivier, Lawrence
(1907-1989). English stage and screen actor, noted for his dramatic
good looks and classical style, he was the first actor elevated to a life
peerage.
Typed Letter Signed ("Larry O."). One page, quarto,
London, February 5, 1973. On National Theatre letterhead. To William
Burnside. Some soil and minor foxing. Mailing folds. In very good
condition.
Written at the beginning of Olivier's final year as
Director of The National Theatre, our letter finds him contemplating aging,
acting and the many responsibilities "Larry" assumed as the foremost
English actor of the century. Apparently written in response to a request,
Olivier replies: "I am so sorry to disappoint you but I simply am not in
line for this sort of thing. I am occupied all my days with my job and the
preparations for getting into the new theatre. I shall be releasing my
Directorship over the next 18 months and after that I shall probably do
absolutely nothing for quite a long time trying to find my bearings
again...I would have to be feeling terribly fit and raring to go before I
thought any more of busting around taking a large company for special
dates. Actually, I don't think, honestly, that I am capable of playing
'Othello' again..." In spite of his protestations of weariness, in 1973
Olivier shepherded the National Theatre through the transition of his
departure and gave two Emmy nominated television performances (he won the
Emmy for "Long Day's Journey Into Night").
Estimated Value $200-300.
Lot 974
Presley, Elvis
(1935-1977). Rock-n-roll legend whose innovative sound, provocative
dancing style, and handsome good-looks captured international attention,
not to mention desperately devoted teenage fans. Presley also successfully
crossed over into film, starring in 33 movies.
Check Signed
("E.A. Presley"). Partially printed, accomplished in manuscript.
8¼ x 3", Memphis, February 15, 1971. Drawn on his account at the
National Bank of Commerce, Memphis. Made payable to Ricky Stanley in the
amount of $189.31. In blue ink. Stamped and endorsed by Stanley on the
verso. Cancellation stamp on recto which slightly overlays, but does not
obscure, the signature. In fine condition.
Printed with Graceland's
original address, 3764 Highway 51 South (before that section of Highway 51
was named Elvis Presley Boulevard), the check is made out to Elvis'
stepbrother, Ricky, and features the notation "Two Suits" along the left
edge. The King's gift-giving is legendary and he always took good care of
the "Memphis Mafia" -- among other things, making sure they were dressed to
the nines. Checks with Elvis' signature are scarce and this is a great
opportunity to own a very rare piece of Elvis memorabilia.
Estimated
Value $1,500-UP.