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Authentic autographed vintage photograph of Gary Cooper from the 1931 Paramount Western Fighting Caravans, in which Cooper starred as Clint Belmet. This early-career studio still features Cooper in full Western costume beside a wagon wheel — a classic image from the film’s publicity campaign.
The autograph is period, signed directly on the photo surface, with visible ink characteristics consistent with Cooper’s early hand. Strong contrast, excellent detail, and clean edges. A rare combination of an early-career still and a genuine Cooper signature.
Authenticity Notes: This is an original 1920s single‑weight gelatin silver studio still of Gary Cooper from his early Western period. The photo is printed on period matte stock with naturally softened edges consistent with studio and press‑archive handling. The surface shows the characteristic micro-speckling of vintage gelatin emulsion, not the smooth resin-coated paper used for more modern reprints.
The signature displays the reflective qualities of period grease pencil / early felt-tip, commonly used by studios and talent during this era. It does not show the indentations or ink behavior of modern marker signatures.
This particular still was not part of the 1960s nostalgia reprint batches, and the physical traits confirm it is a genuine studio-issued print from Cooper’s early career.
Condition:No creases, toning, or edge wear. The surface is clean with excellent contrast. Photo remains exceptionally crisp and well‑preserved for a 1931 studio still. The back shows old tape adhesive from prior archival storage. The excellent condition of this print is consistent with long‑term studio or press‑archive storage. Early single‑weight gelatin silver stills that were retained in studio files often show softened edges, matte backs, and clean surfaces like this example.
Details:
- Original 1931 Paramount studio still
- Authentic period autograph
- From Fighting Caravans
- Crisp image, strong contrast
- Approx. size: 8 x 10
Ships in a rigid mailer with archival protection. Photo is secured in a plastic sleeve with backing board.
