The Wizard of Oz (MGM, 1939), Margaret Hamilton Iconic Screen Matched "Wicked Witch of the West" Flying Hat from the "...

Description

"Give me back my slippers! I'm the only one who knows how to use them. They're of no use to you. Give them back to me!"

The Wizard of Oz (MGM, 1939), Margaret Hamilton Iconic Screen Matched "Wicked Witch of the West" Flying Hat from the "Arrival in Munchkinland" Sequence. Both the Ruby slippers and the Wicked Witch of the West's hat are undeniably two of the most recognizable Hollywood artifacts of all time, from one of the most iconic movies ever made, The Wizard of Oz. The Wicked Witch of the West is the most famous movie witch ever portrayed on screen in arguably the most beloved fantasy film in history. In 1970, well known Oz collector Michael Shaw acquired this hat along with the original pair of Ruby Slippers offered in this auction. Both of these iconic Hollywood treasures toured the United States for more than a decade in Michael Shaw's Hollywood on Tour from the 1980s to the 1990s. Shaw's Ruby Slippers were famously stolen in 2005 and were recently recovered by the FBI (see previous lot). This is the first time this Wicked Witch hat has reunited with Mr. Shaw's Ruby Slippers since the theft almost twenty years ago.

This vintage original Adrian-designed, screen worn signature character hat is constructed of black wool bunting fabric with a wide brim and an interior supporting metal hoop. This is the only Wicked Witch hat that retains an internal MGM Studio bias label just inside the rim, handwritten, "M. Hamilton 4461-164". This hat is identical in materials and design to the other two versions we've handled; however, this particular hat retains the 20" thin elastic chinstrap that secured the hat to Margaret Hamilton's head during the flying sequences in the film. The hat measures 19.5" in diameter with a 13.75" tall cone-shaped crown situated with a rear bias creating a 6.75" wide brim in the front, which extends 5.75" in the rear. The hat retains the original black tulle veil that famously trailed behind in the wind. The cotton fabric is sewn over a heavy canvas base. The unique characteristics mentioned above including ironclad provenance, labeling/tagging, tulle veil, chinstrap, superior overall aesthetics and condition, make this the most significant witch hat in the world.

As part of the impeccable provenance/authenticity dossier, Joe Maddalena, the known authority in this discipline, states "We have sold more "Wicked Witch" hats from The Wizard of Oz than any other auction house and are the recognized authority regarding The Wizard of Oz memorabilia and artifacts. It is our opinion that this is the finest example known to exist". In addition, "This hat screen matches to the sequence in Munchkinland when we are first introduced to arguably the greatest villain character in film history. Note the backward bend near the tip of the hat cone as well as the crimp at the front of the brim which both match." The audience's very first encounter with the Wicked Witch was during the opening scenes when a terrified Dorothy (Judy Garland) peers out the window of her room to see Miss Gulch (Margaret Hamilton) riding her bike in the whirlwind of the tornado that has lifted the house into the sky. Before Dorothy's eyes, Miss Gulch morphs from the bike-peddling spinster into the Wicked Witch flying on her broomstick.

Michael Shaw obtained this Wicked Witch hat from legendary collector Kent Warner who discovered Dorothy's Ruby Slippers at the historic David Weisz Co. MGM Auction in 1970. This iconic piece of Hollywood history has only changed hands once in 50+ years. This very hat is featured on page 75 of the revised and expanded edition of the definitive book on the subject, The Wizardry of Oz, by Jay Scarfone and William Stillman. The hat comes with a custom sculptured silicone display head in the terrifying likeness of Margaret Hamilton in her most famous role. The historical and pop culture significance of this Hollywood artifact transcends generations, and, to this day, continues to mesmerize people from all over the world. Indeed, in the wildly popular modern Broadway musical and 2024 feature film Wicked, the witch hat symbolizes Elphaba's transformation into the "Wicked Witch of the West". As the story unfolds, the world labels Elphaba as "wicked" due to her defiance and pursuit of justice, even though her intentions are often good. This unique opportunity may never happen again in our lifetime. Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions and Profiles in History, and a signed LOA from Michael Shaw.

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.