83

Walt Disney Studios / Thurston Harper

(1903-1987)

Don Donald animation study drawing. 1937.

Graphite on animation paper.
Production:
Animator's study drawing of Donald Duck for the animated short, Don Donald, released in 1937.
8 1/2 x 11 in. (21.6 x 27.9 cm.)

  • Provenance:
    Private collection, Connecticut.

    Other notes:
    A multiple pose animator's study drawing featuring a sombreroed Donald Duck atop his burro, Jenny, with guitar in hand. The central image corresponds to Donald's appearance at the start of the short, when he rides into town to serenade Donna Duck (considered the early version of Daisy).

    Also on the sheet are two rough sketches of Mickey Mouse, a fox character, and an elephant au verso. A fascinating look into the preparation work involved in creating the animation for Donald Duck's first starring role.

    Thurston Harper was among the first artists hired by Walt Disney to work at his Los Angeles studio, where he contributed to a number of Alice comedies, before leaving (reportedly) due to a strong dislike for Disney. Nevertheless, production materials saved by Harper from his career show that he returned to work at Disney Studios at some point in the mid 1930s.
  • Condition: The animation paper has been somewhat trimmed down, and has some handling wear, creasing, and light stains.

    Please contact the Specialist for the auction to request a condition report.

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