Lot #1036

Marilyn Monroe

Description

MARILYN signs for Sammy Davis, Jr.’s decades-long best friend Art Silber, documented in Silber’s book as one of his “most prized possesions”

Outstanding vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 head-and-shoulders photograph of the smiling, recumbent, diamond-adorned Marilyn lying on a cushion in an elegant gown, signed and inscribed in blue ballpoint, “To Art, Love & kisses, Marilyn Monroe.” Accompanied by a copy of an unsigned photo of Monroe posing with Sammy Davis Jr. & Arthur Silber Jr.; clearly visible in Marilyn’s hand is the photo of her described above. Also included is a copy of Silber’s book Sammy Davis Jr.: Me and My Shadow, with a photo of Silber and Davis posing with Monroe as she signs for them, as well as a photo of Silber’s inscribed Marilyn photo. In his book, Silber recounts meeting Monroe while being photographed with a newly delivered Singer automobile: “The photographer forgot to mention that the picture would also include Marilyn Monroe…. After the brief shoot the photographer took a picture of all three of us standing and sitting on and around the car. Sammy and I each had been given pictures of Marilyn and we asked her to autograph them for us. While she was doing that, the photographer took a picture of her signing them.” Silber also notes that the photo was one of his most prized possessions. Silber was Davis’ production manager, assistant, business partner, constant traveling companion, and, most importantly, best friend, confidant and blood brother from 1946 until circumstances forced a parting of ways in 1966. In fine condition, with three trivial binder dings to left edge and a light crease to lower right corner border. The gorgeous image, exceptional condition, and ironclad provenance add up to a Marilyn photo of the highest caliber! RRAuction COA.

Auction Info

• Auction Title:
• Dates: #344 - Ended April 15, 2009