Famed Austrian-American director (1894–1969) whose notable achievements include the “discovery” of Marlene Dietrich and a body of work that includes such classic Dietrich starrers as The Blue Angel, Shanghai Express, and Blonde Venus. His last feature was the 1957 change-of-pace aviation adventure Jet Pilot, starring John Wayne. Arresting vintage matte-finish 10.5 x 13.25 close-up photo, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To Grace from Jo, 1941.” In very good condition, with corner creases (one slightly touching signature), a hint of edge wear, a few faint spots to emulsion, and subtle rippling to top edge. The visual impact of the faults is minimal, and, properly framed, this striking image will present most impressively. While all signed photos of von Sternberg are uncommon, examples of this size are virtually unobtainable. R&R COA.
