Rare and elusive DS, signed “Norma Jeane Dougherty,” one page, 7.5 x 4.25, March 8, 1946. Supplemental model release reading: “Received from Earl S. Moran the sum of Ten Dollars, in full payment for all services rendered by the undersigned today. In consideration for this payment, I also authorize Earl S. Moran, his personal representatives, assigns, customers, clients, etc., to use my photograph or any painting, print, etc., made therefrom for advertising purposes, or for any other purposes of trade which Earl S. Moran or his assigns may see fit.” Beautifully signed at the conclusion in black ink, “Norma Jean Dougherty.” Double matted and framed with a beautiful photo of a young Dougherty posing at the beach, to an overall size of 11.5 x 17. In fine condition.
Monroe (born Norma Jeane Mortenson) took the married name of her husband James E. Dougherty in 1942. In 1944, Norma Jeane took a job at the Radioplane Company, where she was soon “discovered.” Photographer Joe Jasgur first met her on March 6, 1946, responding to a phone call from Emmeline Snively, director of the Hollywood Blue Book Model Agency, asking if Joe could do her a favor and take some pictures of a 19 year old newcomer to see if the camera liked her. He took some pictures in the alley behind his studio near the corner of Beverly Blvd. and Poinsettia Place and yes, the camera liked her!
Two days later, March 8, Earl Moran, one of the great pin-up artists of all time, hired Norma Jeane from the Blue Book Agency to model for him, paying her $10 an hour. Over the next three years, Moran would continue to hire Marilyn on and off and was a fairly steady source of income for her during those erratic, hungry years. Marilyn was once quoted as saying, "Earl saved my life many a time."
Two days later, March 10, Jasgur took Norma Jeane to the top of the Don Lee Towers above the "Hollywood" sign. Mrs. Snively liked the photos but wanted to see what would happen if Dougherty lightened and straightened her hair. Shortly after that, Norma Jeane and Jasgur were off to Zuma Beach in Malibu where he took pictures of her wearing a striped, two-piece bathing suit. Those photos were a turning point, transforming Norma Jeane into one of Blue Book's most successful models. This document shows just how much photographic interest was developing with the starlet that would soon be a star.
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