Enigmatic but important Hollywood director credited with polishing Marlene Dietrich into a glamorous, sensuous star. He directed her in the masterpiece Blue Angel. DS, eighteen pages, 8.5 x 13, November 12, 1949. Agreement between RKO Pictures and von Sternberg. The agreement reads, in part: “…the Corporation employs the Director on a term basis, which agreement is herein called The Agreement…to direct the following pictures; such employment in connection with each such picture to commence during the following peiods at the following rates…” The contract details his weely compensation per picture; additional compensation for travel time if necessary; publicity interviews; stills; potential incompacity and compensation, etc. Boldy signed “Josef von Sternberg” at the bottom of page 18 as well as by an RKO representative. In fine condition, with tile holes and staples to the top border, faint edge toning to some pages, two small tears to top border where staples have been removed, a couple of unobtrusive office stamps and notations. R&R COA.
