Rehearsal/reference prop mask from ”Tommy” - From the Ringo Starr Collection

Painted paper mâché mask of Marilyn Monroe from the collection of former Beatle, Ringo Starr. Some paint chipping around the mask, else fine. Approximately 10 x 8 inches.

The present mask likely originated as a prop from a famous scene in the movie TOMMY and was most probably designed by Christopher Hobbs, an art designer who worked with Russell, Derek Jarman, and Todd Haynes (Velvet Goldmine). While not identical to the ones shown in the film, it is identical to the example in a known archive of materials pertaining to director Ken Russell. Interestingly, Ringo Starr had a cameo playing the Pope (!) in LIZSTOMANIA, the film Russell did before TOMMY. 

Tommy is a 1975 British satirical operetta fantasy drama film written and directed by Ken Russell and based upon The Who's 1969 rock opera album Tommy about a "psychosomatically deaf, mute, and blind" boy who becomes a pinball champion and religious leader. The film featured a star-studded ensemble cast, including the band members themselves (most notably, lead singer Roger Daltrey, who plays the title role), Ann-Margret, Oliver Reed, Eric Clapton, Tina Turner, Elton John, and Jack Nicholson. (12538)

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Art/Sculpture

Art & Design

$2,500.00

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