Iconic Wizard of Oz Artifacts to Hit Auction in Los Angeles
The red glitter slippers worn in the iconic 1939 film “The Wizard of Oz” will be on display at Heritage Auctions’ London saleroom at the end of this month.
One of the four known to survive, this unique pair was “famously stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, in 2005 and recovered by the FBI in 2018,” according to Heritage Auctions.
A second pair can be viewed at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, DC.
“Sixteen-year-old Judy Garland wore these sequined shoes as Dorothy…these size-five shoes are well-worn, suggesting they were Garland’s primary pair for dance sequences,” states Smithsonian’s website.
The Timeless Allure of Ruby Slippers
Ruby slippers, glistening under the glimmering lights of Hollywood, tell a story of dreams and adventure. More than just footwear, these artifacts symbolize the transformative power of hope—a theme evoked throughout the film. It’s fascinating how a simple object can conjure such nostalgia, merging the realms of fantasy with our own reality. As one gazes upon them, one can’t help but reflect on their personal journeys down metaphorical yellow brick roads.
Joe Maddalena, Heritage Auctions’ executive vice president, called these slippers the “most important prop in Hollywood history.” This stature elevates their worth far beyond mere items for sale, inviting collectors and fans alike to consider their significance in the cinematic world.
The Wicked Witch’s Iconic Hat: A Foil to Innocence
Alongside the enchanting ruby slippers, the hat worn by Margaret Hamilton’s Wicked Witch of the West will also be part of the auction exhibit. This black pointy cap serves as a contrasting symbol of darkness, complementing the vibrant journey of Dorothy. In a blend of mischief and charm, it invites a curious exploration of duality in storytelling. The juxtaposition of innocence and malevolence encapsulated within these two artifacts calls forth a myriad of emotions.
“The ruby slippers embody magic and innocence that resonate far beyond film, representing a true cultural icon. Meanwhile, the Wicked Witch’s hat adds an edge of cinematic legend to this auction,” Maddalena reflected. Together, they present a collection that delves into the heart of storytelling, connecting collectors with the legacy of ‘The Wizard of Oz.’
A Journey from London to Los Angeles
Beginning November 28 and running until December 5, the shoes will be displayed in London, capturing hearts before making their way to Los Angeles for auction. Heritage Auction house has set a guide price between $2.9 million to $4.8 million. This invites a broader audience to engage with the cultural milestones encapsulated in these artifacts.
In the modern age, it’s intriguing to consider how memorabilia connects the past to the present, how a relic can foster appreciation for storytelling. The strength of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ lies not only in its magical narrative but also in its ability to resonate across generations. It reminds us that, at times, a journey—however whimsical—can lead to profound realizations. And as the ruby slippers and the Wicked Witch’s hat take center stage, one may ponder how these pieces of cinema history reinvent the way we view courage, hope, and the complexity of human emotion.
