It is a privilege for Julien's to bring this collection of personal and professional property belonging to Marilyn Monroe to auction. With over four hundred books written about Marilyn there are not many things left unsaid about such a timeless icon. Some of the most influential and respected figures of the 20th century have commented on her beauty as well as the undeniable complexity and intelligence of the person behind the Hollywood façade.

This collection spans the early period of Marilyn's career beginning with her divorce documents from first husband, James Dougherty, just one month after signing her first contract with Fox studios and officially changing her name from Norma Jean Mortensen to Marilyn Monroe in 1946; to correspondence from Arthur Miller's father Isidore dated 1962. Of particular note is a revealing painting of a red rose executed by Marilyn and inscribed to President John F. Kennedy on June 1st 1962 her 36th and last birthday.

In addition to these important documents and artifacts are numerous pieces from both Marilyn's personal and professional wardrobe. From her fashionably sexy, grey halter dress from "Let's Make Love" or her simple skirts and sweater sets, the consistent theme throughout Marilyn's wardrobe was one of supreme style and understanding. She knew and understood what styles and designs accentuated her best features and when she found a garment that worked, she bought more than one in multiple colors.

Marilyn once said, "I don't mind living in a man's world as long as I can be a woman in it." The sense of feminine style and grace demonstrated by the items in this collection are a testament to her success in "being" a woman who embraced her un-paralleled sexuality in a man's world.

Sincerely,

Darren Julien
President and CEO
Julien's Auctions

Live and Online Auction

Saturday June 4th, 2005 2:00pm
Barclay Butera, Inc.,
169 North LaBrea Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90036

Exhibition Schedule

New York
Planet Hollywood
Collection Highlights
May 17th – 20th, 2005
11:00am – 1:00am daily

Los Angeles
Full Collection
Barclay Butera, Inc.,
May 31st – June 3rd