Lot 154
Irving Berlin Collection: Nine (9) Typed Letters Signed 1955-1968 (1888-1989) Hailed as one of the greatest songwriters in American History, the acclaim and popularity of Berlin is without equal composing over 1500 songs in his 60 year career including the scores for 20 original Broadway shows and 15 original Hollywood films.
Offered is a collection of typed letters signed, all on his " Cranes Crest" letterhead with dates from 1955 to 1968 all measuring 10½ x 7¼".
Two letters are to Irving Hoffman, a Broadway publicist and columnist for the Hollywood Reporter. Berlin writes to him regarding a song he has written called "Israel" but couldn't get clearance due to Al Jolson having written song entitled the same. Letter is dated December 1, 1959. In a 1967 letter, Berlin writes Hoffman about additions he has made to his Broadway musical "Call Me Madame" and closes hilariously with "Sometimes when you are in the mood, I'll let you hear the tunes. But what the hell do you know about music anyway? Love, Irving"
One letter is to Harry Brand, legendary publicist for 20th Century Fox from the 1930-1960 who made Shirley Temple the most famous child star in history, Betty Grable a GI Joe pinup girl and Marilyn Monroe a sex goddess. Berlin references Julie Andrews that "Metro had finally signed her, references a mutual friend getting a great apartment (on point for a New Yorker) and "It took 60 years to get from a 15¢ flop house on the Bowery to a house on Beekman Place."
Six letters are to Larry Hoffman, son of Irving where they speak of Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, a birthday wish, some gossip and a drawing given to Hoffman by Berlin.
Eight of the letters are in pristine condition. The letter regarding the song "Israel" to Irving Hoffman has one staple very slight soiling and toning. Estimated Value $800 - 1,000
|
| |
| Realized $600 |
