Marilyn Monroe’s previously unseen intimate photos, along with the legendary actress’ memorabilia, are being auctioned to mark her 50th death anniversary. The photos show the happy Monroe that her long-term friend Allan “Whitey” Snyder knew. As the actress’ personal make-up artist from her first screen test in 1946 until her early death in 1962, Snyder became one of her closest confidantes. He not only prepared her for the movies throughout her career, but he was also a friend who even did her make-up for her funeral.
The 100 photos show all sides of life with Monroe – Snyder was asked to photograph her whenever she was jittery on set. Letters, telegrams and a money clip from Monroe are also among the lots set to be sold during Julien’s Auctions’ Hollywood Legends sale. Among the varied mix of other memorabilia up for grabs at the Hollywood auction are her pantaloons worn in ‘River of No Return’; Charlie Chaplin’s iconic cane and his driving licence; and a Christian Dior gown and Catherine Walker dress worn by Princess Diana. The black and white photos were taken just before the blonde bombshell exploded on to the Hollywood scene.