Vintage glossy 8 x 10 full-length photo of Monroe, an original costume test shot for the 1951 film Love Nest, signed and inscribed in green fountain pen, “To Renie—Some one with ‘feeling,’ I’m more grateful than words can express, Love and thanks, Marilyn.” In the image, Monroe poses demurely in a black cocktail dress, her hand on her hip, beside a blackboard bearing the notation “Marilyn Monroe as Roberta,” the name “Renie,” and the date April 5, 1951. Scattered light surface marks and creases, trivial tiny tear to bottom border, and all over slightly irregular ink adhesion, otherwise fine condition.
Renie Conley (1901–1992) was a prominent Hollywood costume designer noted for her subtle, elegant designs. She won her only Oscar (from a total of five nominations) for the budget-busting 1963 epic Cleopatra. As movie buffs are aware, the bathing suit that Marilyn donned in Love Nest was so risqué (for the time) and caused such a commotion on the set that director Joseph M. Newman had to make it a closed set while she was filming. Fans have Conley to thank not only for that bathing suit, but also for the more sophisticated attire worn by Marilyn in this pose.
Authentically signed Marilyn Monroe images are scarce, and an example such as this, personalized with a heartfelt message to someone like Conley, is especially desirable. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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