: The original dress worn by the star Judy Garland (1922-1969) when
she immortalized the character of Dorothy in the classic film
masterpiece The Wizard of Oz sold for $267,000 - more than
four times its estimate. It was greeted with a round of applause
at Bonhams' jam-packed saleroom in Knightsbridge during an April
27 auction of rock, pop and film memorabilia.
Only 17 when she played the renowned character, Garland went on
to become an iconic Hollywood figure, known for her acting and
singing talent as well as a tumultuous personal life that came to
a tragic halt only 30 years later.
Jon Baddeley, group head of the collector's department at
Bonhams, said, "We are absolutely delighted at this world record
price. This is a fairytale ending to one of the most romantic
pieces of movie costume to be offered at auction."
The dress was bought by a private British collector who since
childhood has been enchanted by the magic of the Wizard of
Oz, and realized a lifelong dream in owning a small part of
the movie's history. He won the dress over fierce competition
from American bidders.
The Wizard of Oz was the most expensive film to be made at
the time and has been seen by more people than any other film
ever made. It also ranks among the best musicals ever made.
The dress is made from blue and white gingham cotton and designed
in the style of a pinafore from 1939. It was tailored to fit Judy
Garland; the dress has a waist of 27 inches, height of 3.4 feet
and contains a label with her name sewn on the inside hem.
Prices reported include buyer's premium.
