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Sale 86
The Manuscripts, Collectibles & Space Auction
| The William K. Steiner Collection - Showmen |
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| Lot |
Photo |
Description |
Realized |
Lot 473 |
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Barnum, Phineas T (1810-1891) American showman, businessman, and philanthropist; founder of the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Cabinet photograph signed ("P.T. Barnum 1874") in dark brown ink on the lower mount, 6½ x 4¼ in., no place. Imprint of "Landy, Cincinnati, O." A chest-up portrait of the famous promoter who was known for exhibiting human "freaks"; very good; light soiling, one blemish in border at upper right. Together with an autograph letter signed ("P.T. Barnum"), 1 page, Marina, Bridgeport, Conn., July 6, 1889. To George Young in Brooklyn, N.Y., accepting congratulations, stating, "I begin to feel my age," and discussing schedule of his "big show if present strength holds out…." Accompanied by original transmittal envelope.
Estimated Value $700 - 900.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$810 |
Lot 474 |
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Ringling, Al and John. Two attractive Ringling Bros. checks signed ("Al Ringling"), Baraboo, Wis., one signed Dec. 21, 1912 and one Dec. 13, 1913, both written on the Bank of Baraboo. With a typed letter signed ("John Ringling"), 1 page, 10½ x 7¼ in., New York, N.Y., Sept. 20, 1932. To Walter Trumbull, North American Newspaper Alliance, thanking him for a telegram, regretting that it got "mixed up in the bails of letters and telegrams that were showered on me," and looking forward to the time when they can "talk pitchers and pictures." Al (1861-1919) and John (1866-1936) were two of seven Ringling siblings from Baraboo, Wisconsin who transformed their small touring company into one of America's largest circuses in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They ultimately merged with other circus troops, creating the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, which still tours today under that name. With a photo of John (the most famous brother) and his wife on vacation in Miami Beach, including the press blurb. (4 items).
Estimated Value $250 - 300.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$408 |
Lot 475 |
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Signed Portrait of Florenz Ziegfeld and Oversized Ziegfeld Girl Portrait by Alfred Cheney Johnston. At the turn of the century, no producer brought together on New York City stages as many productions and as much diverse talent as Florenz Ziegfeld. A legend by any measure and the subject of countless films, Ziegfeld's name evoked class, wonder, sophistication and opulence the likes which has never been equaled. Offered is a vintage original 8" x 10" portrait still by Harold Stein (blind embossed and stamped on verso, Harold Stein) beautifully signed as simply Ziegfeld in his familiar hand to fans world wide. Also included is a stunning, oversized 14" x 11 double-weight portrait by acclaimed photographer, Alfred Cheney Johnston, very well known for his portraits of Ziegfeld Beauties. Here a signed and inscribed portrait of Ziegfeld Star, Lora Foster, signed in white india ink and dated 1927. Two corner tips of outer white borders are missing and a small fissure in top white border in no way detract from the stunning artistry of this beautiful portrait.
Estimated Value $600 - 1,000.
View details and enlarged photos
| Realized
$781 |
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