Dean’s worn tie from his screen test for East of Eden. Multi-colored tie has a studio label sewn onto the reverse, with “Jim Dean,” written on the second line, dated “5/24/54,” on the first line along with “Prod. 810.” Accompanied by a letter of authenticity from David Loehr, curator of the James Dean Memorial Gallery, which reads, in part: “James Dean’s tie from ‘East of Eden.’ Tie worn by the actor in wardrobe tests for the movie, but not in the movie.” This tie was worn in a test of Dean and Dick Davalos, with the slate indicating the set being “Kates Office; Scene 142,” where Cal takes Aron to see ‘his mother’ which happens the night of the birthday party. In fine condition, with two small stains near the bottom. Dean was suggested to director Elia Kazan by screenwriter Paul Osborn. Although John Steinbeck did not personally care for Dean, he thought he was perfect for the part. Any item of clothing related to any Dean film is quite uncommon and highly desirable, particularly one associated with his first starring role. RR Auction COA.
