5 5/8 x 4 1/8 in (14.4 x 10.5 cm)

Provenance and Authentication:
This collectible has undergone a rigorous forensic evaluation. The signatures were carefully analyzed across multiple criteria, including ink deposition, material aging characteristics, stylistic consistency, and historical alignment. The findings provide a sound basis for authenticity and historical context, and the piece is accompanied by comprehensive documentation supporting both its provenance and verification.

This signed photograph of Marilyn Monroe originates from the celebrated 1956 "Black Sitting" series photographed by Milton H. Greene, one of the most artistically refined portrait collaborations of Monroe's career. The image captures Monroe seated atop a round table, dressed in a patterned strapless bodice and fishnet stockings, projecting a carefully balanced combination of glamour, confidence, and playful intimacy. Unlike earlier studio publicity stills, Greene's photographs emphasized Monroe's evolving artistic identity, presenting her not merely as a Hollywood starlet but as a self-aware performer shaping her own image.

The silver gelatin print displays the tonal softness and depth characteristic of mid-century studio photography. Subtle contrast between illuminated skin tones and darker costume textures creates a sculptural presence, reinforcing Monroe's iconic visual language. Minor surface aging consistent with vintage photographic paper enhances authenticity and period character rather than detracting from presentation.

The photograph bears Monroe's signature in blue ink across the lower portion of the image. The autograph shows fluid motion, elongated letterforms, and a confident continuous stroke typical of her mid-1950s signing style. The placement allows the signature to integrate visually with the composition while remaining highly legible, a feature particularly valued by collectors. Signed examples from the Greene collaboration period are especially desirable, as this era represents Monroe's artistic independence following the formation of Marilyn Monroe Productions.

Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962) remains one of the most enduring cultural icons of the twentieth century. Her imagery transcends cinema, influencing fashion, photography, and popular culture worldwide. Authentic signed photographs occupy a premier category within Hollywood memorabilia, combining celebrity history, visual artistry, and rarity. Due to Monroe's early death and relatively limited volume of authenticated signatures, demand has remained consistently strong across international auctions.

From a market perspective, signed Monroe photographs tied to recognizable photographic sessions tend to outperform generic publicity images. Works connected to Milton H. Greene are particularly favored, as they represent a turning point in Monroe's career and are widely reproduced in exhibitions and publications. This example offers both strong display presence and long-term collector appeal.

Condition:
Any statement made in any catalogue or otherwise regarding the origin, date, age, attribution, authenticity, or estimated selling price of any lot is an expression of opinion only. Such statements do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Oldstone Ventures LLC in relation to any lot.
Prospective buyers are strongly advised to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy and reliability of the catalogue description prior to making a purchase. The absence of specific references to prior restorations or condition issues in the descriptions does not imply that the item is free from such restorations or defects.
Photographs provided by Oldstone Ventures LLC are for indicative purposes only and are not guaranteed to precisely reflect the actual condition, color, or quality of the items.
Buyer Responsibility:
Buyers are encouraged to seek independent expert advice regarding the authenticity, condition, and value of any item before placing a bid.
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