Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a first edition copy of the intimate biography of stage legend Gertrude Lawrence, written by her husband, Broadway producer Richard Stoddard Aldrich. It features a poignant association inscription from the author to his son, Richard S. Aldrich Jr., dated 1956.
Story
Richard Stoddard Aldrich wrote this tribute after his wife's 1952 death. This copy is deeply personal: he inscribed it to his son, the very 'stepson' mentioned in the book's photo captions as he left for the Korean War.
Maker / Origin
Richard Stoddard Aldrich was a powerhouse Broadway producer who managed the Cape Playhouse and brought over 30 plays to the stage. His wife, Gertrude Lawrence, was the original 'Mrs. Anna' in The King and I and a global superstar of the theater.
Condition & Value
The book shows typical shelf wear and some toning to the pages consistent with its age. The inscription remains clear and vibrant; the absence of a dust jacket would slightly temper the high-end value. Condition of the spine and hinges appears solid.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.