Meinhardt Raabe "Little Oscar: The World's Smallest Chef" Uniform....
Description
Meinhardt Raabe "Little Oscar: The World's Smallest Chef" Uniform. Vintage original (2) piece costume including (1) ivory cotton twill double-breasted chef jacket with front left chest pocket, single pocket on the outside of the left sleeve with 2-slots, and "Fine Meats, Oscar Mayer, Since 1883" embroidered in red text on the center of the chest, and (1) matching cotton toque chef hat with "Little Oscar" embroidered in red text across the band. Worn by Meinhardt Raabe during commercial and public appearances throughout his tenure as "Little Oscar: The World's Smallest Chef," the official mascot and goodwill ambassador for Oscar Mayer. Raabe, who originally joined the company as an accountant, was promoted in 1937 to become the very first "Little Oscar," traveling the country in the iconic Wienermobile to promote the brand. He achieved lasting fame with his memorable role in The Wizard of Oz (1939) as the Munchkin Coroner, delivering the famous line declaring the Wicked Witch of the East "really, most sincerely dead" after Dorothy's house fell on her. Raabe continued representing Oscar Mayer well into the 1950s, ultimately working for the company for 29 years and becoming one of its most recognizable public figures. Costume exhibits production wear and age, including overall discoloration and staining. 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.
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