This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/22/2015
Despite being one of the best known personalities of the last century and the founder of the most successful entertainment company in history, Walt Disney's signature is exceedingly rare today—particularly on the medium of photographs. The reason for this is that for several decades Disney routinely had his animators sign his mail, and also had them sign most photographs and animation cels for him as well. The offered black and white publicity portrait is a rare exception as it has been personally signed by him. Boldly penned in his trademark flowing style, the photograph is signed, "Walt Disney." Disney has accomplished the signature in a rich black art marker, and the signature spans seven inches across—nearly the entire width of the photograph!According to former Disney Archivist David R. Smith, Disney had an affinity for publicity photos featuring him with animals from the TV show. He kept a stack of these photos in his desk, and on those rare occasions where Disney would personally respond to autograph requests, images such as this were his photo of choice when providing autographs. Further research provides that this particular image is from a scene from the introduction of his Sunday night television show. Well preserved for it’s 45+ years of existence, this photograph stands in excellent condition. Overall in fine condition with PSA/DNA notating a inscription removal. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from the experts at PSA/DNA.