March 2012 Auction Ends Wednesday, March 28th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/28/2012
American cultural icon Orson Welles' personal typewriter signed. Fully functional Underwood Standard Portable Typewriter is signed in black marker ''Orson'' on the left side of the front board, and ''Welles'' on the right side. This is an early Underwood four-bank model dating to the year of its debut in 1926, and was likely used by Welles during the 1930's and 40's, at which time he wrote ''Citizen Kane'' for which he won 1941's ''Best Original Screenplay'' Oscar. Also during this time Welles wrote a controversial Hollywood column in the ''New York Post'' and a plethora of adaptations of literary works, including ''Around the World in 80 Days'' for radio broadcast and the infamous hoax he perpetrated by means of his adaptation of H.G. Wells' ''The War of the Worlds.'' He also wrote the screenplays for ''The Magnificent Ambersons,'' ''The Lady From Shanghai'' and ''Journey Into Fear'' during this time. Early model points of the typewriter include: 1) the shift lock is a nickel-plated lever, not a glass key; 2) the ribbon reversal is controlled by a lever at the top right of the front plate, not a knob on the bottom; 3) the paper table bears a label that reads, ''Standard Four Bank Keyboard'' in gilt lettering beneath the large ''Underwood'' brand name; and 4) the patents listed on the back end at 8 December 1925. Measures 11.5'' wide at the carriage, 10.5'' deep, and 4.25'' at its highest point. Some loss of finish, else near fine. Included is the original case labeled: ''Orson Welles / Hotel de la / Tremoille / Paris 8 France'', the Parisian hotel where he was known as a frequent guest. The case measures 12.25'' wide by 12'' deep by 5.5'' high. Cracking to edges and loss of material to corners; very good. The signed Underwood typewriter and its case were originally acquired from Orson Welles' February 1992 estate sale. An incredible item from an architect of modern theatrical art.
CORRECTION
Typewriter may need restoration to be fully functional.
Orson Welles Signs His Personally Owned & Used Typewriter -- Used Circa 1930's-40's During the Writing of ''Citizen Kane''
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