Stunning, radiant vintage matte-finish 10.75 x 13.75 photo affixed to a two-layer 15 x 20 card mount, circa 1931, signed and inscribed in ink, “From me to youse guys—You know I love you next to my Mommie, Just your Me.” According to the consignor, the inscribees were Ruth and John Hamp. Ruth, a close friend of Harlow from childhood, later wed bandleader John Hamp, a fixture at Hollywood night spots. The Hamps took care of Harlow’s mother, “Mama Jean,” after the star’s untimely death, and Mama Jean later bequeathed many of Harlow’s personal effects to Ruth Hamp. The image is evidently by Preston Duncan, an independent Los Angeles photographer who became known for his glamour work during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Harlow signed very few photographs, and this “personal” form of her signature was reserved for her most intimate friends. A few small spots of insignificant marginal soiling, a tiny surface mark or two (very faint impression to hair), and a very subtle suggestion of silvering to perimeter, all mentioned only for the sake of strictest accuracy and having no effect whatever on the appearance, otherwise fine, clean condition. An extraordinary treasure from this most legendary and elusive of Hollywood rarities! PSA/DNA Auction LOA and R&R COA.
