April 2012 Auction Ends Monday, April 30th, 5pm Pacific

Oscar Awarded to Leon Shamroy, Cinematographer for 1942's ''The Black Swan''

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/30/2012

1942 Oscar statue presented to distinguished cinematographer Leon Shamroy for his work on the Technicolor picture ''The Black Swan.'' Rafael Sabatini's novel formed the basis for the swashbuckler film directed by Henry King and starring Tyrone Power, Maureen O'Hara and Anthony Quinn. This was the only Oscar awarded for ''The Black Swan.'' Shamroy's painstaking devotion to the sparing, precise use of lights in his shots earned him a reputation for possessing a highly artistic style, even tending toward the experimental. He was nominated for 18 Oscars over the course of his career and is tied for the record for most nominations in the cinematography category. This was Shamroy's first Oscar win, followed by three more victories: ''Wilson'' in 1944, ''Leave Her To Heaven'' in 1945 and ''Cleopatra'' in 1963. He made movie history with 20th Century-Fox when he shot the Biblical epic ''The Robe,'' the first film to employ the revolutionary widescreen format called CinemaScope. Shamroy also served as Chairman of the Research Council of the American Society of Cinematographers. Engraved plaques affixed to the base read: ''Academy of / Motion Picture / Arts And Sciences / First Award / 1942'' and ''Academy First Award / to / Leon Shamroy / For Color Cinematography / 'THE BLACK SWAN'''. The figure stands on a film reel, measuring 10.25'' from the base of the reel to the top of Oscar's head. Height including base is 13.25''. Base underside is covered in green felt backing. Diameter measures 5.25'' and statue weighs 6 lbs. Some tarnishing to upper portion of statue and to plaques on base. The metal base is devoid of black lacquer, as issued during the war. Academy Award is in very good to near fine condition. Accompanied by original notarized letter of authenticity by the widow of Leon Shamroy.