Hearst, William Randolph. Extraordinary oversize photograph signed ("W.R.") to Marion Davies with lengthy inscription...

Description

Hearst, William Randolph. Extraordinary oversize photograph signed ("W.R.") to Marion Davies with lengthy inscription gelatin silver double-weight deckled edge photograph by James Manatt, 10.25 x 13.25 in. (260 x 337 mm), depicting a 3/4-image of the publishing magnate wearing a dark suit, best and silk patterned tie, seated in a chair with hands folded. With photographer's blind-stamp at lower right corner. Mounted to 15 x 19 in. (381 x 483 mm.) mat board. Light spotting on mat with a few chips to photo edges. William Randolph Hearst presents his mistress Marion Davies with a large signed photograph with poem on Valentine's Day 1935. Hearst writes on the mat of the photograph: A Valentine, February fourteenth 1935. To Marion from W.R. "Thus let me hold thee to my heart, And ever care resign, And we shall never never part, My life - my all that's mine. Goldsmith." This quote is the penultimate stanza from Oliver Goldsmith's poem "The Hermit". Shortly after meeting William Randolph Hearst in 1915, Marion Davies became his constant companion until his death in 1951. An incredibly important signed photograph with one of the best of all Hollywood associations - William Randolph Hearst and his mistress Marion Davies.

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