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Description

The Birthplace of Method Acting: The Legendary Actors Studio.

[Marilyn Monroe]. Vintage Photo Matched "Actors Studio" Sign (ca. 1950s). Vintage original 29.75" x 13" Masonite board hand-painted in black letters, "ACTORS STUDIO" against a painted white background, encased in its original black wooden frame. This sign matches a renowned photograph of Marilyn Monroe, arguably the most iconic student to pass through the Studio's doors. In the photo, Monroe stands outside wearing a dark coat with a fur collar and an ivory V-neck blouse. The sign features unmistakable identifying marks, including a circular indentation just below the top center mounting hole and a circular flaw between the "T" and "O" in "ACTORS"-now worn through-which appear clearly in the image. Mounting holes at the corners and center top and bottom also correspond with the photo documentation. White paint spatter on the top and bottom frame edges, as well as on the back, adds to its authenticity and character (the sign was mounted on a white brick wall of the studio).

A cornerstone of American theater and film, The Actors Studio in New York City has long stood as the epicenter of method acting-a transformative technique that forever altered the craft of performance. Founded in 1947 and shaped by the visionary Lee Strasberg, the Studio nurtured a generation of actors who brought emotional authenticity and psychological depth to the stage and screen. The Actors Studio has been a training ground for some of the greatest performers in cinematic history. Its alumni list reads like a Hall of Fame, including Marlon Brando, James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, Paul Newman, Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Sally Field, Jane Fonda, and Dustin Hoffman, to name a few. This sign is more than a relic-it is a silent witness to the birth of modern American acting. Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions.


Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.



Auction Info

Auction Dates
July, 2025
16th-18th Wednesday-Friday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 5
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 825

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% of the successful bid per lot.

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Sold on Jul 16, 2025 for: $65,625.00
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