The sale of the historic ruby slippers at an auction in New York has sent shockwaves through the film and collectibles communities. The shoes, which were worn by Judy Garland in her iconic portrayal of Dorothy Gale in the classic 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz,” were sold for a record-breaking $2.8 million, surpassing previous estimates and solidifying their place as one of the most valuable pieces of movie memorabilia in history.
The ruby slippers, which were designed by legendary costume designer Adrian and created by MGM’s prop department, were one of several pairs made for the film. However, this particular pair was considered lost forever after the film’s production wrapped. They were last seen in the 1980s, when they were on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. However, in 2005, the shoes were rediscovered in a storage room at the museum, sparking a renewed interest in the iconic footwear.
Since their rediscovery, the ruby slippers have become one of the most recognizable symbols of American cinema, with numerous replicas and adaptations created for film, stage, and television productions. The shoes have also been the subject of several books, documentaries, and exhibitions, cementing their place in popular culture.
The sale of the ruby slippers was facilitated by the auction house Profiles in History, which specializes in the sale of rare and historic memorabilia. The shoes were sold to an anonymous collector, who outbid several other interested parties to secure the iconic footwear.
According to Joe Maddalena, the CEO of Profiles in History, the sale of the ruby slippers was a historic moment for the auction house. “We are thrilled to have facilitated the sale of this incredible piece of movie history,” Maddalena said in a statement. “The ruby slippers are an iconic symbol of American cinema, and we are honored to have played a part in their preservation and sale.”
The sale of the ruby slippers has also sparked a renewed interest in the history of the film and its production. “The Wizard of Oz” was released in 1939 and was based on the classic children’s novel by L. Frank Baum. The film was a major commercial success, grossing over $3 million at the box office and becoming one of the highest-grossing films of the year.
The film’s success can be attributed in part to the iconic performances of its cast, including Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr, and Jack Haley. The film’s memorable songs, including “Over the Rainbow” and “We’re Off to See the Wizard,” were written by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg and have become staples of American popular culture.
In addition to its cultural significance, the sale of the ruby slippers has also highlighted the importance of preserving and protecting historic artifacts. The shoes are a rare example of a historic artifact that has been preserved and protected for future generations, and their sale serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
In conclusion, the sale of the historic ruby slippers at an auction in New York is a significant event that highlights the importance of preserving and protecting historic artifacts. The shoes are an iconic symbol of American cinema, and their sale serves as a reminder of the enduring power of film to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.
