Marvin Scott (1944), Marilyn Monroe on an Elephant (from Marilyn's Circus) (1955)

Marvin Scott (American, b. 1944) Marilyn Monroe on an Elephant (from Marilyn's Circus), 1955 Gelatin silver print, printed later 49 x 39 inches (124.5 x 99.1 cm) (image/sheet) Signed and editioned 1/4 in ink in the image. This iconic image and the ones in lot 73167 were taken in March of 1955, when "America's Sex Goddess" made a guest appearance at a charity opening of the Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus at Madison Square Garden in New York City. In her first public appearance since her divorce from Joe DiMaggio, Monroe donned a characteristically form-fitting costume, mounted a pink elephant, and strode into the ring to roaring applause from the thousands in attendance. These rare photographs capture the magnetic beauty of a Hollywood star who continues to capture the imagination of new generations of fans, even sixty years after her death. This captivating series was shot by Marvin Scott, then only fifteen years old, an enterprising young photographer who secured entry into the event with his high school press pass. Marvin Scott is currently an Emmy Award-winning television reporter in New York City, who will never forget that evening, or Monroe's love affair with the camera.

HID09710052018

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Condition Report: Overall good condition. Silver mirroring, some areas of which are more bronze/gold in appearance. Scattered soft creases and hairline scratches visible under raking light. A few areas of disruption to the emulsion layer, appearance as variations in surface sheen. Sheet is mounted and framed under acrylic to 50 x 40 inches. Not examined out of frame due to size.