Image Dimensions: 10 3/4 x 7 7/8 in (27.4 x 20 cm)
Framed Dimensions: 18 1/8 x 15 1/8 in (46 x 38.5 cm)

Provenance and Authentication:
According to the Letter of Authenticity (LOA) and Certificate of Authenticity (COA) provided by the consignor, this collectible was subjected to a forensic examination. The accompanying documentation states that the signatures were evaluated with reference to multiple characteristics, including ink deposition, material and aging characteristics, stylistic consistency, and historical context. Based on the examination described in these documents, the authentication provider concluded that the findings were consistent with the attributed signatures. The LOA and COA provided by the consignor accompany the lot.

A signed drawing depicting Tom Cat, the celebrated animated character from Tom and Jerry, rendered in black ink with a lively and immediately recognizable expression. The character is shown in a three-quarter bust composition, with oversized ears, arched brows, wide eyes, projecting whiskers, and an open smiling mouth conveying the energetic personality associated with classic mid-century American animation.

The drawing is signed Iwao Takamoto beneath the figure and dated "'58." The visible signature displays characteristics associated with Takamoto's handwritten form, including the compressed, rapidly connected letter structure, pronounced initial strokes, elongated lower movement, and sweeping horizontal finish. The date incorporated immediately beside the signature further gives the drawing the appearance of a period animation-related presentation piece.

Iwao Takamoto was one of the important figures of twentieth-century American animation, working at Walt Disney Studios before joining Hanna-Barbera, where he became particularly celebrated for his character design work, including the creation of Scooby-Doo's visual appearance. His long association with the golden age of American studio animation gives signed character drawings considerable appeal among animation and popular-culture collectors.

Presented under matting in a substantial dark wood frame with restrained gilt detailing.