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An original 5x7" antique photo (NOT a modern reprint) from an incredible Hollywood photograph collection that we acquired from a major sale house from the estate of a Miss Gladys Sylvia.
The collection consisted of hundreds of original photos and signed fan photos that the collector painstakingly acquired directly from both celebrities and studios.
The signature on this photo, at first glance, appears to be printed / part of the photo.
Photo Overview
A lovely sepia-toned studio photograph of Frances Howard, the beautiful silent film actress who became famous both for her Hollywood career and her marriage to legendary producer Samuel Goldwyn. This 5x7 fan photo features a close-up of Howard with her signature bobbed curls, pearl necklace, and the glamorous look that made her a sought-after leading lady in 1920s cinema. The image bears a printed facsimile signature reading "Sincerely, Frances Howard." From the estate collection of Miss Gladys Sylvia, a dedicated Hollywood memorabilia collector who acquired photos directly from celebrities and studios during the golden age of cinema.
Historical Notes
Frances Howard (1903-1976) appeared in a number of silent films in the mid-1920s, including "The Swan" (1925) with Adolphe Menjou and "Too Many Kisses" (1925) with Richard Dix. In 1925, she married the powerful movie mogul Samuel Goldwyn, and shortly thereafter retired from acting to focus on her role as Hollywood royalty. The marriage lasted until Goldwyn\'s death in 1974 - nearly 50 years. Together they had one son, Samuel Goldwyn Jr., who himself became a successful film producer. Frances was known as one of the most elegant and influential hostesses in Hollywood society for decades, wielding considerable behind-the-scenes influence in the film industry. After Samuel Goldwyn\'s death, Frances managed his estate and legacy until her own passing in 1976.
Print analysis
This appears to be a Type 1 original 1920s studio fan photograph. The sepia tone, the photographic paper stock, and the overall feel are consistent with mid-1920s Hollywood publicity photos. The back shows age-appropriate toning and foxing, with no stamps or markings that would suggest later reproduction. The facsimile signature was printed directly onto the photographic paper as part of the original production run, which was a common studio practice for mass-distributed fan photos in the 1920s. The paper and print characteristics are fully consistent with a period piece from approximately 1925-1928.
Condition
This is an antique photo and is in generally good condition for its age. Please see photos for any foxing, corner damage, tears, folds, smudges, or other age damage that may be present.
