Description

Description: With a touch of his signature wit, Alexander Woollcott (1887-1943) inscribed and signed this portrait photograph upside down…so he could read it in the image! An older, casual Woollcott sits at his desk, sans tie, coat unbuttoned, plumes of smoke rising from the cigarette held aloft in his left hand. A blank piece of his personal stationery lays in front of him on the desk, as if it is he who is reading his inscription to “Myron” that is signed “A. Woollcott”.

Woollcott was a prominent theater critic who had a reputation for writing rather acerbic reviews. He was friends with many prominent writers and actors, including Harpo Marx and Dorothy Parker, both of whom frequently joined Woollcott at the Algonquin Hotel for “Round Table” lunches which became wildly famous for the members’ lively repartee.

Ink stamp on the back indicates the photograph was taken by Richard Carver Wood of New York City and is dated September 6, 1939. Mat window: 8 ¾” x 6 ¾”. Overall: 11 ¾” x 10 ¼”. Item #A01422

Condition: Very good condition with a bold signature that demonstrates Woollcott’s personality (mat has a small stain at upper left corner)