Four Conceptual Costume Illustrations from Cecil B. DeMille Films, 1935-1956

Cecil B. DeMille was a prolific filmmaker whose visionary films spanned both the silent and golden age of the silver screen. Considered the "Founding Father" of the American cinema, DeMille is likely the most commercially successful director/producer in film history.

Each illustration is a working illustration full of design notes, fabrication notes, and alternative views. Additionally, each illustration has the "OK" and initials of Cecil B. DeMille as he was often known to approve the illustrations in this manner before production on the costume began. The identified designers all worked at Paramount Studios through which each of the films were released.

This lot includes four costume illustrations from Cecil B. DeMille productions.

THE FIRST
Musician from The Crusades, 1935. Watercolor and pencil on paper with fabric samples. Fil Nickels, designer.

Approximate Measurements:
Length: 22"
Width: 15"

THE SECOND
Ray Milland as Steven Tolliver in Reap the Wild Wind, 1942. Watercolor and pencil on paper.

Approximate Measurements:
Length: 19.5"
Width: 14"

THE THIRD
Angela Lansbury as Semadar in Samson and Delilah, 1949. Watercolor and pencil on paper with fabric samples.

Approximate Measurements:
Length: 21.5"
Width: 14.5"

THE FOURTH
Douglass Dumbrille as High Priest Jannes in 10 Commandments, 1956. Watercolor and pencil on paper. Marilyn Sotto illustration for Ralph Jester design.

Approximate Measurements:
Length: 19.5"
Width: 14.5"

Property from the Estate of Edgar Foster Daniels, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Condition:

All conditions exclude the frame, matting, and glass.

THE FIRST
The overall condition is very good though the paper has slightly yellowed due to age and there are several smudges and spots from when the illustration was being created. There are several costume notes in the margins and pinholes from hanging.

THE SECOND
The overall condition is very good though the paper has slightly yellowed due to age and there are a few smudges on each side.

THE THIRD
very good though the paper has slightly yellowed due to age and the leather fabric swatches have dried and discolored. There are additional costume views in the margins, mainly on the left side.

THE FOURTH
The overall condition is very good though the paper has slightly yellowed due to age and there are several smudges and spots from when the illustration was being created. There are several costume notes in the margins and staples on the top edge.
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Four Conceptual Costume Illustrations from Cecil B. DeMille Films, 1935-1956

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