More than 175 objects that were once associated with the legendary blonde Marilyn Monroe will now be available to fans of the character and work of the famous actress. Julien's Auctions and TCM Present: Icons & Idols Hollywood will host a joint auction next month, both offline and online.
One of the most significant items at the upcoming auction will be a handwritten note by Charles Stanley Gifford, who was recently proven by DNA analysis to be the father of the late legend. “This card is the only known material artifact that establishes any connection or communication between Gifford and his famous daughter”.
It is alleged that Gifford hand-delivered the card to the movie star while she was hospitalized. According to Monroe historian and collector Scott Fortner, “I discovered the card purely by chance while I was preparing Marilyn's personal archives for auction at Julien's Auctions.
This is the only known documented evidence of a relationship between Monroe and Gifford, which solves the mystery of whether or not she knew or had contact with her biological father”. Gifford is believed to have given the postcard to Monroe while she was in the hospital.
The artifact, which Julien's Auctions estimates will sell for $2,000-$3,000, depicts a girl standing on a musical note. “Dear Marylyn,” the handwritten message inside begins, with Monroe's name spelled incorrectly.
The card's pre-written text then reads, “This cheery little get-well note comes specially to say that lots of thoughts and wishes, too, are with you every day”. To which Gifford added, “a little prayer too,” signing the card, “Stanley Gifford, Red Rock Dairy Farm, Hemet, Calif”.
The Hollywood icon's real name was Norma Jeane Mortenson and she was born to Gladys Pearl Baker, one of Gifford's former co-workers. However, Monroe did not have a relationship with her father growing up. The auction's press release explains, “It is believed that Gifford did not want to upset his wife and children by allowing Monroe to be part of his life”.
In addition, a lot of cosmetics will be presented at the auction
“For nearly two decades, Julien's has proudly represented the legacy and lore of Hollywood's most glamorous and iconic star, Marilyn Monroe…In this auction, we've curated with TCM what is sure to be one of the most-talked-about and history-making Marilyn collections in the industry”.
TCM general manager Pola Changnon added, “Despite the numerous books, movies and stories there are about the life of Marilyn Monroe, she has always been a largely enigmatic and alluring star. This auction brings us closer to the real person she was, and Julien's has done an incredible job curating this glimpse into her all-too-brief life”.
The Julien's Auctions & TCM Present: Icons & Idols Hollywood auction will take place on December 17th and 18th in Beverly Hills, as well as online at the auction house's website. Those who want to participate in the auction can already register.