Destiny Takes Shape - One of Monroe's Earliest Modeling Jobs for Legendary Pin-Up Photographer Earl Moran!Rare and elusive document signed “Norma Jeane Dougherty,” one page, 7.5” x 4.25”, February 7, 1946. Supplemental model release reading: “Received from Earl S. Moran the sum of Ten Dollars, in full payment for all services rendered by the undersigned today. In consideration for this payment, I also authorize Earl S. Moran, his personal representatives, assigns, customers, clients, etc., to use my photograph or any painting, print, etc., made therefrom for advertising purposes, or for any other purposes of trade which Earl S. Moran or his assigns may see fit.” Beautifully signed at the conclusion in black ink, “Norma Jean Dougherty.”
Monroe (born Norma Jeane Mortenson) took the married name of her husband James E. Dougherty in 1942. In 1944, Norma Jeane took a job at the Radioplane Company, where she was soon “discovered.” Photographer Joe Jasgur first met her at the beginning of 1946, responding to a phone call from Emmeline Snively, director of the Hollywood Blue Book Model Agency, asking if Joe could do her a favor and take some pictures of a 19 year old newcomer to see if the camera liked her. He took some pictures in the alley behind his studio near the corner of Beverly Blvd. and Poinsettia Place and yes, the camera liked her!
A few days later, Earl Moran, one of the great pin-up artists of all time, hired Norma Jeane from the Blue Book Agency to model for him, paying her $10 an hour. Over the next three years, Moran would continue to hire Marilyn on and off and was a fairly steady source of income for her during those erratic, hungry years. Marilyn was once quoted as saying, "Earl saved my life many a time."
While this document not only represents one of the first ever modeling engagements for Monroe, it also represents a pivotal point in her budding young career. Deemed “edgy” at the time, Moran’s vision of Monroe would provide us a glimpse into the alluring a playful nature that Norma Jeane possessed, and that caught the eyes of studio executives and led to the eventual metamorphosis of what become the persona of Marilyn Monroe. Accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA.