The Fine Art & Collectibles Sale
Lot 117:
Description
10 1/8 x 8 in (25.7 x 20.4 cm)
Provenance and Authentication:
This lot is accompanied by supporting documentation provided by the consignor. According to the accompanying materials, the signature was reviewed with reference to factors including ink characteristics, material aging, stylistic consistency, and historical context. These materials relate to the reported signature, provenance, and authentication history of the piece, and are presented as received for bidder review in accordance with the auction terms and conditions.
This elegant black-and-white publicity photograph of Grace Kelly, signed "Best wishes, Grace Kelly, " captures the timeless beauty and cinematic poise of one of Hollywood’s most iconic actresses. Issued by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer during the height of her film career, this studio portrait embodies the polished glamour of 1950s Hollywood and the poised charm that would later define her as Princess of Monaco.
Grace Kelly’s handwritten inscription and signature add exceptional value to this piece. Her autographs remain highly desirable due to her relatively short public career-having retired from acting in 1956 to marry Prince Rainier III-and her enduring legacy as both an Oscar-winning actress and a European royal figure. The clarity and placement of the signature, written in bold ink against the lighter fabric of her dress, enhance the visual and collectible appeal of the photograph.
Signed vintage MGM publicity photos of Grace Kelly are particularly rare and sought-after by collectors, as many were either unsigned or signed by secretaries. Examples featuring direct inscriptions in her own hand, especially those in excellent condition, have consistently fetched strong results at auction. Notably, similar signed photos have been acquired by prestigious collections dedicated to Hollywood’s Golden Age.
The historical and cultural value of this piece extends beyond its autograph. It is a relic of mid-century cinematic elegance and American pop culture, reflecting both the artistry of Hollywood’s promotional machinery and the personal charisma of one of its most luminous stars.
Ideal for framing and display, this signed photograph would make a distinguished addition to collections focused on classic film, royal memorabilia, or 20th-century celebrity history.
Condition: ALL PROPERTY IS SOLD AS IS, WHERE IS, WITH NO RETURNS OR CANCELLATIONS.
Additional photographs and condition reports may be provided upon request as a courtesy only. Any condition report, catalogue description, image, certificate, report, document, authentication statement, authentication opinion, specialist opinion, or communication regarding origin, date, age, attribution, authenticity, authorship, signature, condition, provenance, or value is an opinion only and not a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Yakon Auctions.
The absence of reference to defects, restoration, wear, damage, handling marks, conservation, alteration, or repair does not mean the lot is free from such matters. Photographs are for reference only and may not accurately reflect color, tone, dimensions, condition, signature details, or the true state of the lot. Buyers should review all images carefully, as they form part of the description.
Provenance is provided by the consignor, prior owner, or most recent owner and may not be supported by records. All reports, COAs, appraisals, authentication letters, provenance statements, invoices, labels, or related documents, including any opinions, analyses, or conclusions therein, are provided as received from the consignor, prior owner, or third party, and have not been independently verified by Yakon Auctions. Such materials are for reference only and are not guarantees of authenticity, authorship, signature, origin, age, period, provenance, condition, or value.
All artworks, antiques, collectibles, autographed items, signed memorabilia, music memorabilia, records, photographs, posters, entertainment collectibles, and related items are offered based on information and documentation provided with the lot. Unless expressly stated, Yakon Auctions has not independently authenticated any signature, inscription, attribution, authorship, association, provenance, pressing detail, edition, period, origin, or related documentation.
Terms such as "attributed to, " "after, " "manner of, " "circle of, " "school of, " "in the artist’s style, " or similar language mean the lot is not guaranteed to be by the named artist, maker, signer, studio, or period. Exact authorship, origin, attribution, or date may be unknown, and the lot may not be included in any official catalogue raisonné, archive, registry, or recognized reference source.
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No return, refund, cancellation, or bid retraction will be accepted based on disputes regarding authenticity, attribution, authorship, signature, condition, provenance, description, estimated value, market value, or buyer’s post-sale opinion.
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