Weekes Autographs

Autographed Letters
Signed Photographs
Historically Significant Material

We do more than sell autographs. We build relationships.

RON WEEKES - Proprietor

DONNELL G. MUELLER - Business Development Director

CLAUDIA McGARRIGLE - Associate


3380 Sheridan Drive #360

Amherst, New York 14226

Voicemail: (716) 830-8000 (24 hours)

Member: The Manuscript Society, The Ephemera Society of America,

 

Click on small images to see full-sized pictures.

Page 1 | Page 2 | Page 3 | Page 4 | Glossary of Abbreviations

 

(ARIAS) FONTEYN (DAME) MARGOT  (1919-91)  British-born prima ballerina, considered the greatest of the 20th Century. Vintage large, bold, autograph on a pale green album leaf (1986) professionally matted along with a Yousef Karsh oversized black and white litho print portrait of the ballerina. Stunning. $ 150

 

Buffalo's Own Renowned Composer

Harold Arlen

 

(Photo for Illustrative Purposes Only)

 

ARLEN, HAROLD   (1905-86) American composer of popular music. Wrote over 400 songs some of which have become known the world over. Signed record LP cover (with record in very good condition) "Harold sings Arlen (With Friend). Mr. Arlen has dedicated and signed the cover to the late Paulette Attie, founder of the New York Musical Theatre Foundation. In black marker pen Arlen has penned "For Paulette, Most Sincerely, Harold, 4-25-66." Album contains such songs as Blues in the Night; Today I Love Everybody; Ding Dong, the Witch Is Dead; My Shining Hour; Ac-cent-tchu-ate the Positive. Arlen's first well-known hit was "Get Happy" (1929) popularized by Judy Garland. Academy Award for “Over the Rainbow.”   $ 200

 

THARP, TWYLA    (1941-   ) American dancer and choreographer; winner of Emmy and Tony Awards. Recently inducted into the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Signed Photograph, contemporary 5"x7" black and white glossy, en pose, signed in blue marker pen. $ 45

 


WENDELIN, Rudolph – (1910-2000)

 

American illustrator credited with the popularization-in-art of

Smokey the Bear

 

Designer of the 1964 John Muir commemorative postage stamp. Enjoyed a 40-year career with the U.S. Forest Service. Authentic, hand-drawn, rendering of Smokey, measures 4”x6” which he has signed and to which he has added a few additional words. Professionally double-matted in forest green and brown tones, encased in glass and a handsome wooden frame. Accompanied by a set of four, mint, US commemorative Smokey stamps that are 22-years old. Original drawings of Smokey by Wendelin are becoming more uncommon. This is a beauty and certainly a nice piece of investment in American popular advertising art. $ 995

 

Smokey the Bear Illustrator

Rudolph Wendelin Important Content Note

Autograph Note Signed, small slip of paper, that has been professionally matted in a rich hunter green board along with a 5"x7" color glossy print of the world famous "Smokey the Bear" illustration. Note reads:  I am busy -- sometimes more than I can handle, but I still love drawing Smokey. Good luck and best wishes to your son -- drawing gives one great satisfaction -- and often joy to others. Thanks. Rudolph Wendelin (ret. 1973).  $ 225

WENDELIN, RUDOLPH - Endearing drawing of Smokey signed by the illustrator.  Professionally matted along with a plate of US Forest Service stamps and a Smokey the Bear color glossy print. Wonderful display piece, ready for framing.  $ 475

ZUKERMAN, PINCHAS   (1948-   ) Grammy Award-winning Israeli violinist and symphonic conductor; Music Director of the Ottawa national Arts Center Orchestra.  A 10"x8" black/white glossy publicity photo by Martha Swope, boldly signed.  $ 50

WILBERFORCE, WILLIAM  (1759-1833)


Autograph Note signed, no date, no place, (circa 1816 per note on reverse: 543; Wm. Wilberforce 11 of 4 mo 1816 abt Schoolmaster for (St.) Domingo (Haiti). Partial segment of letter to William Allen, English scientist and philanthropist who opposed slavery and was engaged in schemes of social and penal improvement in early nineteenth century England. In 1810, Allen became treasurer of the Royal Lancastrian Society, the aim of which was to open progressive schools in England and abroad. It was renamed the British and Foreign School Society in 1814 (two years before this letter was written) when Allen was, again, its treasurer. Note reads: “…above all we want a fit head [indecipherable] to find some old halfhap officer not to help them to the art of war but of peace. I am, my dear Sir, yours truly, W. Wilberforce.” Professionally matted striking 4”x6” color glossy print of an original portrait of Wilberforce late in life. Crease in closing which has been archivally repaired. $ 250

 

British politician, philanthropist, a leader of the movement to abolish the slave trade. Served as an independent member of Parliament for Yorkshire from 1784-1812. In 1785 he underwent a conversion experience and became an evangelical Christian, resulting in major changes to his lifestyle and a lifelong concern for reform. Two years later, Wilberforce came into contact with Thomas Clarkson, Granville Sharp, Hannah More and Charles Middleton who persuaded him to take on the cause of abolition. He headed the Parliamentary campaign against the British slave trade for 26 years until the passage of the Slave Act 1807. In later years, Wilberforce supported the campaign for the complete abolition of slavery, and continued his involvement after 1826, when he resigned from Parliament because of his failing health. That campaign led to the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833, which abolished slavery in most of the British Empire. He died just three days after hearing that the Act had been passed. He is buried in Westminster Abbey. Wilberforce and the Abolition Movement were the subject of a 2006 film Amazing Grace. Ioan Gruffudd was cast in the role of Wilberforce. (For more information see: http://www.amazinggracemovie.com).

HARNICK, SHELDON  (1924) American lyricist best known for his collaborations with composer Jerry Bock on hit musicals such as Fiddler on the Roof. Autograph Letter Signed, one page, 1998.  "With a lovely surprise your opening night message was!  Thanks much! I'm happy to report that all 5 performances were received enthusiastically.  In fact, at our final performance there was a long line of people hoping for turn backs.  Now comes the uphill task of promoting additional productions.  But it's all worth it!  Thanks again. Sheldon."  (Probably in reference to the 1998 production "Coyte Tales).  $ 45

LANDSEER, SIR EDWIN  (1802-73) Renown British landscape painter who specialized in animals. In the 1840's Landseer was  at the height of his fame and success, producing many of his most celebrated animal pictures. The underlying cruelty of many of these pictures cannot be ignored, but it would be wrong to think of Landseer as a sadist; he rather regarded the cruelty and tragedy of animal life as a sad reflection of the lot of man. Influenced the work of Rosa Bonheur, among others. Vintage signature on small sheet of paper dated May 4, 1850. “Your humble servant, E. Landseer."  Professionally matted with a vintage (circa 1870) collotype print of Landseer with two of his favorite dogs. Would make a wonderful display for a gentleman's den.  $ 275

 

 

HIRSCHFELD, Al(bert) (1903-2003)  American graphic illustrator and (PRESLEY, Elvis Aaron) (1935-77) considered the King of Rock N’Roll.

 

This is a professionally matted and framed display piece. It consists of a 8”x10” black/white steel engraving of Elvis as originally conceived by Hirschfeld. It has been signed in pencil by Hirschfeld and incorporates a first day of issue commemorative Elvis stamp. To the right of the display piece is a vintage black and white glossy publicity photograph of a young Elvis, published in 1952 and taken from a newspaper. Elvis is somewhat uncommon in such early images and this one is particularly “fun” in that his eyebrows have been drawn in to enhance the overall quality of the photograph! Matted in a gold metallic board, encased in glass and sleek brass, ribbed-motif frame. While this does not include an original autograph of Elvis it is, nonetheless, an affordable and delightful alternative, especially as it includes an original engraving of a print which has been authentically signed by the late Hirschfeld. Similar vintage photographs of Elvis have sold for as much as $350 recently. This is a complete display piece. Overall measure is 17”x13”. $ 495

 

FLEMING, Renee  (1959 -   )

American operatic soprano. Signed 8”x10” color glossy character still from Bellini’s Il Pirata. Professionally matted in a beautiful board with grey, gold and blue tones, encased in Mylar sleeve. $ 100 

ALBANESE, LICIA (1913-   ) Ecuadorian-born operatic soprano. Made her operatic debut in 1935. Vintage Metropolitan Opera program, boldly signed on the cover, in very good condition. In character as Violette in LaTraviata. One of Mme. Albanese's most famous role. $ 45

EVERETT, EDWARD (1794-1865) American statesman; U.S. Senator from Massachusetts; President of Harvard University; United States Envoy and Minister Plenipotentiary to Britain; Governor of Massachusetts before being appointed US Secretary of State by President Millard Fillmore to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Daniel Webster. Autograph Letter Signed, 4"x6.5" (folded sheet). Written from Cambridge November 2, 1848. Reads:  "Dear sir (Doctor Plympton): Allow me to enquire whether there is any change of feeling on Mrs. Manning's part on the subject of disposing of the estate occupied by herself and you.  I remain, Dear Sir, with much regard yours, Edward Everett."  Folds, light toning, otherwise very good. Accompanied by a handsome steel engraving, circa 1838, which has a facsimile signature below. Perfect gift for an academician, history buff or politician. The pair...$ 100

 

COWARD, (Sir) Noel (1899-1973)

Vintage SIG taken from the title page of one of his books; professionally matted in plum-coloured suede board along with an interesting color reprint of a Matisse-esque charcoal drawing of Sir Noel. Encased in museum conservation glazing and a gilt-wooden frame. $ 450  

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY OF DISTINGUISHED AMERICANS - We have scores of 170-year old steel engravings of Americans, published by Hermon Bancroft, NY; Henry Perkins, Philadelphia; O. Rich, London; Scatcherd & Adams, printmakers. Image size of most plates is 3.5"x4.25" with many bearing facsimile signatures on the lower mount. Some have light foxing or staining which could be matted over.  Prices vary depending upon rarity and desirability, but an affordable way to exhibit images of early distinguished Americans. A few of those available include: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, Daniel Boone, Washinton Irving, James Fenimore Cooper, and many others. Please inquire.

STEBER, ELEANOR (1914-1990)  American operatic soprano.  Autograph Letter Signed, two pages, (two sides of fold-over note). Dated 1939, Boston, addressed to Mr. Bimboni. Thanks Bimboni for granting her an audition and expressing the hope that they will collaborate again.  Accompanied by a vintage advertising image of Steber at the height of her operatic career.  $ 100

 

 

DALAI LAMA, HIS HOLINESS (1935 - ) 14th Dalai Lama, born Tenzin Gyatsu. Self-exile to India in 1959 in protest of atrocities at the hands of Chinese Communists. Nobel Laureate; lecturer; world humanitarian; author. A striking signed 6"x8" color glossy photograph. Professionally matted in a crimson-siena suede board, under glass, and a circular-medallion motif gilt wooden frame. Serene. $ 450

 

 

DALAI LAMA, HIS HOLINESS (1935 - ) 14th Dalai Lama, born Tenzin Gyatsu. Signed card, professionally double-matted with a 4"x6" black and white litho print closeup portrait of His Holiness. A striking display piece. Bold signature. Signature acquired 9-18-2006 during a visit of His Holiness to a local university. $ 275

 

 

CHRISTO (1935-  ) and JEAN-CLAUDE - Bulgarian artist couple who specialize in environmental installation art.  SP post card "Surrounded Islands, Biscayne Baye" 1983.  Christo has signed for both his wife and self.  $ 50

SERKIN, RUDOLF (1903-91) Bohemian-born pianist and classical recording artist.  Serkin was, for many years, a teacher at and then director of the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia.  Co-founder of the Marlboro Music School and Festival, 1951. Served as its Artistic Director until his death, forth years later. In-person greeting and signature dated 1964. Professionally matted with a Karsh color litho print image.  $ 195

 

 

MOORE, GRACE (1898-1947) American operatic soprano; also appeared in a few films (most notably "One Night of Love," 1934, Columbia Pictures).  Popularly hailed as the "Tennessee Nightingale."  Mme. Moore died in a plane crash near the Copenhagen, Denmark airport on January 26, 1947, at the age of 48. Vintage fountain pen signature in blue ink on slip of paper (measure 4.5" x 2.5" with room for matting).  Accompanied by two photographs: one a vintage original 8"x10" black/white publicity photo, the other a black/white glossy operatic character still print by Teppo, NY (unfamiliar with the role).  All three items would make for a lovely display.  $ 135

 

Page 1 | Page 2 | Page 3 | Page 4 | Glossary of Abbreviations

PLACING AN ORDER – We distinguish between an inquiry and an order. If, however, we do not hear back from you on an inquiry, we can only assume you are not interested. Once an order has been placed, we actively remove merchandise from active inventory and reserve it. Thus it is not available to anyone else.  PLEASE, if you place an order, remit payment within three business days or inventory returns to our catalogue. Repeated incidence of late or non-payment is not fair to existing a new clientele who may be interested in a particular item.  We appreciate your understanding.

We offer several flexible payment options:

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If paying by check or money order, please send to the address at the top of the page.

All items that we offer are subject to prior sale. Prices are in effect at the time of offering but may change without notice. New York residents must add 8.75% sales tax. Telephone inquiries welcome Mon-Sat 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (EST). You may also email us at ron@weekesautographs.com.

New clients who have not established a relationship with us, and who pay by personal check, are asked to wait seven to 10 days for drafts to clear our bank before merchandise is shipped.

PayPal is a widely-accepted, fully-secure method of sending monies worldwide. Many of our clients already use PayPal. Not only does PayPal send confirmations of money transfers but it also provides buyer and seller with a detailed record of transactions for accounting purposes (especially helpful for insurance purposes). Although we guarantee everything that we sell, PayPal also offers added protection to buyers.

Important – please note: If you purchase anything from our catalogue sampling, using the PayPal Buy It Now link below, it will be necessary to confirm the shipping and insurance fees before processing your payment. Please first contact us by telephone or e-mail to determine what these additional fees will be. We generally ship via U.S. Postal Service: priority mail, certified or insured. While the majority of our clients are within the continental United States, we also have clients in Europe and Asia. Please understand that shipment overseas will be Air Parcel Post, with shipping rates variable depending upon the country of delivery.

Layaway – Young people and those on a limited budget find layaway an excellent means of acquiring material. Our terms are simple. On purchases of $200 or more, a client may place an item or items on 90-day layaway with a one-third, non-refundable deposit. Equal payments are due at 60 and 90 days, at which time material is shipped. All material remains our sole property until such time as the terms of layaway are fully met. There is no additional charge for layaway.

 


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TERMS USED
Courtesy of The Manuscript Society

SIG Signature
ALS   Autograph Letter Signed; entirely in the hand of the author
LS   Letter Signed; signed by the author but written by another (i.e. a secretary or clerk)
TLS   Typewritten Letter Signed
ANS   Autograph Note Signed; same as ALS but more brief.
ADS   Autograph Document Signed; (a will, a manuscript, a journal) but signed by the author
DS   Document Signed (such as a check or court record)
AQS   Autograph Quotation Signed; this could be poetry or a memorable statement; in the handwriting of the author. Many autograph albums of the mid 19th Century contained brief signed quotations
AES   Autograph Endorsement Signed; endorsement in the author’s hand, usually on the verso or margin of another letter
AMuQS   Autograph Musical Quotation Signed; this might be a few bars of music from the composer’s body of work, which he has signed and/or dated. These are highly desirable collectibles.
SP   Signed Photograph
ISP   Inscribed Signed Photograph; this is the same as above but includes a dedication or a few words of greeting in the hand of the author.
NY   No year
ND   No date
NP   No place
PP   Pages

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