Unveiling Marilyn Monroe: Rare Portraits by John Ahlhauser Up for Auction
In 1949, a young photojournalist named John Ahlhauser took portraits of a relatively unknown 23-year-old actor passing through Milwaukee on a publicity tour. Little did he know that the actor was Marilyn Monroe, still known as Norma Jeane Mortenson at the time. To commemorate Monroe's 100th birthday, five of the photos from that shoot are up for auction through proxy bidding, with a live auction scheduled for Tuesday morning. These images offer a glimpse into a more unguarded and unedited version of the iconic celebrity.
The photos were taken as part of a promotion for Monroe's role in the Marx brothers' film "Love Happy." They showcase a pre-fame Monroe before she underwent cosmetic changes and developed her signature look. The images have been described as windows into Monroe's soul, capturing a vulnerable and raw essence of the starlet. While one photo was published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel in 1949, another image appeared in Gloria Steinem's book "Marilyn: Norma Jeane" in 1988.
After Ahlhauser's passing in 2016, his daughter Mame O'Meara and her siblings inherited his collection of photos, including those of Monroe. The family decided to auction off five of the photos while keeping two for themselves. This decision allows others to own the copyright and potentially use the images for various purposes, while preserving a couple of cherished pieces in Ahlhauser's collection.
Despite the photoshoot not being a standout moment in Ahlhauser's career compared to other significant events he covered, O'Meara finds beauty in the simplicity of the session. She sees both her father and Monroe as individuals allowing vulnerability to be captured by the camera, creating a unique and intimate connection between the photographer and the subject. The photos serve as a reminder of the humanity and authenticity behind the glamour of celebrity culture.
In conclusion, the auction of these rare and intimate photos of Marilyn Monroe offers a glimpse into a lesser-known side of the iconic actress. Through the lens of John Ahlhauser, Monroe's vulnerability and unguarded moments are captured, providing a deeper understanding of the person behind the glamorous persona. The auction not only presents an opportunity for collectors to own a piece of Hollywood history but also preserves the legacy of a talented photographer and his unique connection with a legendary star.