Mary Blair (1911-1978)

Mary Blair and Marc Davis Cinderella Fairy Godmother Character Concept Drawing Group of 4 (Walt Disney, 1950). This is a remarkable find for any collector of original artwork by Mary Blair (1911 - 1978): two original concept drawings in graphite of the Fairy Godmother for the Walt Disney classic Cinderella. It is rare to see any concept work by the Disney Legend that is not rendered in her medium of choice, gouache. These drawings showcase Mary Blair's talent for linework and contours, qualities that are less prominent in her more well-known color key paintings. A painted study following these drawings can be seen in the Japanese book The Colors of Mary Blair, on page 139 (prints of the cover and page are included in this lot). Excitingly, you can see paint outlines from her concept paintings on the back side of these drawings. Rendered masterfully on two sheets of 16 field 5-peghole animation paper, the drawings are joined by two original character concepts by fellow Disney Legend Marc Davis (1913 - 2000). Rendered in graphite, ink, and watercolor on two sheets of 12 field 5-peghole animation paper, these drawings seem to draw clear inspiration from the preliminary work by Mary Blair, matching the artist's inherent whimsy and charm. Excitingly, Marc Davis' drawings lean closely to the design ultimately seen in the film. These two drawings are signed by Marc Davis, and the other two bear the notation "Mary Blair," hand-written by Marc Davis. These two Disney masters were dear friends outside of the Disney Studio, making this lot an excellent symbol of both their friendship and professional collaboration. Overall minor studio handling and edge wear, with some light folding and wrinkling. Light age-related toning, and the condition of this rare set is Good. From the Disney Legend Inductees Marc and Alice Davis Archive. HID09710052018 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved