MGM, 1938. Group of 19 silver gelatin photographs, some with three-hole punches on the borders indicating they are studio keybook stills, featuring various costume and wig tests, head molds for wigs, as well as photographs of various wig arrangements, approximately 8 x 10 in. each. Arguably one of MGM's most lavish productions in the history of the studio, these wig and costume test photographs exhibit to what extent MGM and director W.S. "One Take Woody" Van Dyke strove for accuracy in their extravagant production of Marie Antoinette, starring the Queen of MGM, Norma Shearer, along with a star-studded cast including Tyrone Power, Joseph Schildkraut, John Barrymore, and Anita Louise. As was its custom, MGM took liberties with history and embellished the story to make Marie Antoinette a rather sympathetic character, but in terms of costumes, hairstyles, and sets, they sought faithfulness with precision. Max Factor made more than 2,000 wigs for the production. Costume designer Adrian and set designer Cedric Gibbons traveled to Europe for months to extensively research the hair, makeup, wardrobe styles, architecture, and furnishings of the period, with Adrian creating almost 4,000 costumes. No expense was spared. The result was a box office success which kept Norma Shearer in her number one leading lady position and helped to make Tyrone Power a legendary star.
8 x 10 in.
MGM, 1938. Group of 19 silver gelatin photographs, some with three-hole punches on the borders indicating they are studio keybook stills, featuring various costume and wig tests, head molds for wigs, as well as photographs of various wig arrangements, approximately 8 x 10 in. each. Arguably one of MGM's most lavish productions in the history of the studio, these wig and costume test photographs exhibit to what extent MGM and director W.S. "One Take Woody" Van Dyke strove for accuracy in their extravagant production of Marie Antoinette, starring the Queen of MGM, Norma Shearer, along with a star-studded cast including Tyrone Power, Joseph Schildkraut, John Barrymore, and Anita Louise. As was its custom, MGM took liberties with history and embellished the story to make Marie Antoinette a rather sympathetic character, but in terms of costumes, hairstyles, and sets, they sought faithfulness with precision. Max Factor made more than 2,000 wigs for the production. Costume designer Adrian and set designer Cedric Gibbons traveled to Europe for months to extensively research the hair, makeup, wardrobe styles, architecture, and furnishings of the period, with Adrian creating almost 4,000 costumes. No expense was spared. The result was a box office success which kept Norma Shearer in her number one leading lady position and helped to make Tyrone Power a legendary star.
8 x 10 in.
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.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
