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Description

Theda Bara Cleopatra Long Pearl Bra and Jewel Tassel, and Salome Gold Pantaloons with Pearls. 1918's Salome, in some film historian's judgement, surpassed Cleopatra. Indeed, Theda Bara threw herself passionately into the role of the infamous biblical temptress, causing a sensation. This lot presents pieces from both Cleopatra and Salome -- the Queen of the Nile's plunging bejeweled bra, and Herod's stepdaughter's gold pantaloons with pearls. Faux jewels, multi-colored stones - and realize that enjoying these costumes in color was never possible for anyone who ever saw these long-lost black and white films. The 90-year old costume pieces are in amazingly good shape, having been lovingly created for a Silent Screen superstar and truly standing the tests of time. Very Good condition. These costumes capture all the gaudy splendor of early Hollywood movie-making, and have the distinction of having been actually worn by one of the great legends of the screen in all her vampy splendor in two of her most famous roles. Theda personally presented these costumes to the consignor shortly before her 1955 death. Magnificent! From the Joan Craig Costume Archive of Theda Bara. Accompanied by a letter of provenance from Joan Craig.

Heritage Auctions provides detailed information when available but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements and photographs are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of facts, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Framed artworks are not examined outside their frames, and additional details from Heritage may be unavailable; therefore, the condition of unexamined works is not guaranteed. Heritage is not responsible for damage to frames, glazing, original boxes, display materials, or for works that have shifted within the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" in accordance with our Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
October, 2008
4th-6th Saturday-Monday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 1
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 7,446

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
19.5% of the successful bid per lot.

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Sold on Oct 4, 2008 for: $8,962.50
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