February 2012 Auction Ends Tuesday, February 28th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/28/2012
A magnificent trophy from the golden age of Hollywood: the original Best Picture Oscar awarded to "Cavalcade" at the The Ambassador Hotel on 16 March 1934. This Oscar is from only the sixth Academy Award ceremony, a time when Oscars were held every other year. The ceremony is remembered for the mistake made by Will Rogers when presenting the award for Best Director. Rogers announced, "Come and get it Frank!" Confident of winning, nominee Frank Capra marched to the stage only to discover Rogers had meant the actual winner, Frank Lloyd for "Cavalcade." Rogers quickly called on third nominee George Cukor to join them on stage and ease the embarrassment. This Oscar was Fox Studio's first Best Picture accolade of a total of eight wins, seven of which were achieved after the company's merger with 20th Century. Cavalcade, based on the original play by Noel Coward, centers around the life of a wealthy London family set to a backdrop of major historical events including The Boer Wars, the sinking of the Titanic and World War I. Engraved plaque reads, "Academy of / Motion Picture / Arts and Sciences / First Award / 1933". A circular plaque underneath the statue has the words engraved, "Academy First Award / to / Fox Film Corporation / for the production / of / 'Cavalcade'". The figure and film reel, composed of gold-plated britannium measuring 10.5" tall, top the pedestal, bringing the total height to 12". The pedestal's diameter measures 5.25". The award weighs 7 pounds, 5 ounces. Some expected wear to statue and red felt backing under the pedestal is wearing away around the edge. Overall in very good condition.
Oscar for 1933 Best Picture "Cavalcade" -- From the 6th Academy Awards -- Fox Film's First Oscar
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