American comic actor. Fittingly born a Leo in New York City, he is best remembered today for his role as the Cowardly Lion (and the farmworker Zeke) in the classic 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz, but known during his life for a career in burlesque, vaudeville and Broadway. Exceptional vintage glossy 8 x 10 photo of Lahr in character as the Cowardly Lion, signed and inscribed in fountain pen, “To ‘Vickie,’ with love, Uncle Bert.” Accompanied by a letter of provenance signed by the original recipient, Vicki Arthur, a niece of Lahr’s who states that she received the photo circa 1958. Diagonal bend to upper left blank area, tiny, trivial chip to left edge (completely confined to border), and a few barely noticeable surface creases to facial area, otherwise fine condition. A blue-chip Oz rarity! PSA/DNA Auction LOA and R&R COA.
