The auction is titled ‘Entertainment Memorabilia including Animation Art’. Beneath the somewhat strait-laced title sits a veritable treasure trove of mementoes from the early days of Mary Pickford, Jean Harlow and Humphrey Bogart, through the ‘Golden Era’ of Disney animation (signed photos of Walt, plus original celluloids from ‘Pinocchio’ and ‘One Hundred and One Dalmations’) right up to more recent times.
So, whatever happens to be your cinematic bag, there should be something in the sale for you. Rock Hudson enthusiasts won’t be disappointed as there is a vast array of lots dedicated to the Rock, including a ‘Rock Hudson birth certificate, US$1,000 - 1,500’ and the great man’s ‘Hermes key chain and house key, US$400 – 600’.
And how about ‘A Keith Richards handwritten letter addressed to "Neil", circa 1966, thanking him for his letter with a mention of his last L.P. and how busy they have all been.’ Richards writes: "I am quiet at home with the new Bentley", signed Keith Richards.
“Keith Richards”…“quiet”…“at home with the new Bentley” – brilliant, and well worth the US$300 – 400 estimate.
Other rock stars to feature include Eric Clapton (‘1960 Gibson ES-330TD guitar, US$ 25,000 - 35,000’) and Sid Vicious (‘A canvas tote bag promoting Steve Hillage's 1977 album Motivation Radio together with a group of accessories including studded belts and bracelets, US$2,500 – 3,500’). Jimi Hendrix shows another dimension to his artistic talents with the impressive watercolour ‘Flower Demon’, estimated at US$60,000 - 80,000.
At least as a brilliant guitarist he was also a very talented painter; the less said about the three abstract oils by Frank Sinatra, the better.
Finally, a couple of items of leatherwork not associated with Sid Vicious or Rock Hudson: Rocky’s gloves and Indy’s plaited whip. Just US$7,000 – 10,000 will make you a contender, and there’s even "Punchfully yours, Sylvester Stallone" signed in black marker on one glove.
Meanwhile, a 151in whip used by Harrison Ford in the ‘Raiders’ series will set you back a touch more: US$30,000 - 50,000.
Photos: Bonhams
