April 2012 Auction Ends Monday, April 30th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/30/2012
Oscar statue presented to cinematographer Leon Shamroy for his work on 1944's ''Wilson.'' The biopic centering on former U.S. President Woodrow Wilson was the brainchild of 20th Century-Fox studio head Darryl F. Zanuck. It performed poorly at the box office, yet earned Academy Award nominations in a dozen categories. 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. His discernment did not go unnoticed; 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 second Oscar win, preceded by a victory for 1942's ''The Black Swan.'' He would win again the very next year for ''Leave Her To Heaven'' and for 1963's ''Cleopatra.'' Shamroy and 20th Century-Fox made movie history when he shot the first film to employ the revolutionary widescreen format called CinemaScope during the Biblical epic ''The Robe.'' The influential cinema pioneer had a decades-long association with 20th Century-Fox and 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 / 1945'' and ''Academy First Award / to / Leon Shamroy / For Color Cinematography / 'WILSON'''. 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., 7 oz. Some tarnishing to upper portion of statue and to plaques. Chipping to lacquer at base edges. Academy Award is in very good condition. Accompanied by original notarized letter of authenticity by the widow of Leon Shamroy.
Oscar Statue Awarded to Leon Shamroy for Color Cinematography of the 1944 Film ''Wilson'' -- Master Cinematographer Who Received 18 Nominations
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