This is an original, signed pencil sketch drawn by Academy Award winning actor Lionel Barrymore (1878-1954) entitled “Brush and Rocks”, circa 1920. It was originally housed in the private collection of Barrymore’s manager and personal friend, James M. Doane.
Many of Barrymore’s artworks were etched and offered as prints, however this piece was never etched and remains in its original pencil state.
While Barrymore is a legend in film history for his roles in “It’s a Wonderful Life”, “A Free Soul”, “You Can’t Take It With You”, and so many others, Lionel Barrymore first trained as an artist in the early 1900s. A member of the Society of American Graphic Artists, he continued his love of art right alongside his movie career within a private art studio at his California home.
Following Barrymore’s death in 1954, James M. Doane, and later his son, James K. Doane, were left with Barrymore’s original pieces and plates and eventually chose to produce prints for the public.
The piece was professionally matted and framed many years ago; the reverse side retains a handwritten note: “Legend. Original pencil sketch by Lionel Barrymore, Circa 1920, to be etched on copper but never started.” Also features an Ex Libris bookplate for James M. Doane.
The signed sketch measures approximately 5″ x 5.5″ inches, while the frame measures approximately 12″ x 13″ inches.
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