The legendary Rosebud sled, a central symbol in the 1941 cinematic masterpiece, was bought for $14.75 million, becoming one of the most valuable pieces of film history.
**Iconic Rosebud Sled from Citizen Kane Fetches $14.75 Million at Auction**
**Iconic Rosebud Sled from Citizen Kane Fetches $14.75 Million at Auction**
An original prop from the classic film Citizen Kane sells for nearly $15 million at auction, marking a historic moment in Hollywood memorabilia.
The notable auction recently took place, revealing the thoughtfully preserved wooden sled had been saved from destruction, thanks to director Joe Dante.
The wooden sled "Rosebud," emblematic of the revered film Citizen Kane, was sold for an astonishing $14.75 million (£11 million) at a recent auction. This prop, pivotal to the film's opening scene and integral to its narrative, is one of only a few known to exist, with a storied history that was almost cut short. Previously thought lost, the sled was given to Joe Dante in 1984, who rescued it from obscurity. Dante went on to reference the sled in his own films, including the cult classic Gremlins 2: The New Batch, enhancing its allure as an Easter egg for avid film fans.
Described by Joe Maddalena from Heritage Auctions as one of Hollywood's most iconic objects, the sled's sale makes it the second most expensive piece of memorabilia ever auctioned, following a pair of ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, which sold for $32 million (£23.9 million) last December. The identity of the buyer remains undisclosed, adding an air of mystery to the acquisition.
The significance of "Rosebud" within the Citizen Kane narrative cannot be overstated, as it is central to understanding the complexities of the protagonist's life. This sentiment was echoed by Dante, who expressed his astonishment and pride at having acquired such an essential piece of film history that resonates deeply with cinema lovers.
Other iterations of the Rosebud sled have previously made their way to collectors; notably, director Steven Spielberg purchased another version and later donated it to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. Yet, the rediscovery and sale of this particular sled marks a unique moment in the celebration of cinematic heritage.
With its impactful storyline and the legend surrounding it, the Rosebud sled continues to captivate the hearts of film enthusiasts worldwide, solidifying its place in the annals of Hollywood lore.
The wooden sled "Rosebud," emblematic of the revered film Citizen Kane, was sold for an astonishing $14.75 million (£11 million) at a recent auction. This prop, pivotal to the film's opening scene and integral to its narrative, is one of only a few known to exist, with a storied history that was almost cut short. Previously thought lost, the sled was given to Joe Dante in 1984, who rescued it from obscurity. Dante went on to reference the sled in his own films, including the cult classic Gremlins 2: The New Batch, enhancing its allure as an Easter egg for avid film fans.
Described by Joe Maddalena from Heritage Auctions as one of Hollywood's most iconic objects, the sled's sale makes it the second most expensive piece of memorabilia ever auctioned, following a pair of ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, which sold for $32 million (£23.9 million) last December. The identity of the buyer remains undisclosed, adding an air of mystery to the acquisition.
The significance of "Rosebud" within the Citizen Kane narrative cannot be overstated, as it is central to understanding the complexities of the protagonist's life. This sentiment was echoed by Dante, who expressed his astonishment and pride at having acquired such an essential piece of film history that resonates deeply with cinema lovers.
Other iterations of the Rosebud sled have previously made their way to collectors; notably, director Steven Spielberg purchased another version and later donated it to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. Yet, the rediscovery and sale of this particular sled marks a unique moment in the celebration of cinematic heritage.
With its impactful storyline and the legend surrounding it, the Rosebud sled continues to captivate the hearts of film enthusiasts worldwide, solidifying its place in the annals of Hollywood lore.
