Arcana:

(MGM STUDIO). Weisz Co., The David. Los Angeles: The David Weisz Co., 1970. First Editions. 4to. Stapled Printed Wrappers. Auction Catalogs. Near Fine.. xvi + 232 + 112 + 48 + 72 + 104pp, 52 color illustrations. In 1970, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studio sold the contents of seven sound stages to Los Angeles auctioneer David Weisz. Weisz hired costumer and collector Kent Warner to help catalog and select the material for auction, and in the course of his work Warner found several pairs of the ruby slippers from "The Wizard of Oz". The one pair offered at the MGM sale fetched a then-unheard-of $15,000, and actress Debbie Reynolds alone is said to have purchased thousands of items. The five catalogues prepared for the event contain the brief details (often with attributions) for over twenty thousand lots offered over six sales beginning Sunday May 3rd, 1970 that ran for seventeen days. The first catalogue (referred to as the "gold book auction") is devoted to antiques and furniture; the second ("green") to various furniture and props; the third ("blue") to transportation and props; the fourth ("rose") and perhaps the most coveted to "Star Wardrobe" - including Kim Novak's black lace brassiere and panties!; and the fifth ("silver") to miniatures, weaponry and vintage cars. A most handsome, complete set of set of all five MGM sale catalogues. PLEASE NOTE: Additional shipping costs are required for this item beyond our standard rates due to its weight and value - we will inform you of the applicable amount at time of purchase. Inventory Number: 027562