Yul Brynners Leica Cameras

LEITZ AUCTION 43

YUL BRYNNER'S
LEICA CAMERAS

Yul Brynner, known for his iconic stage and screen performances, such as his Academy Award-winning portrayal of King Mongkut in 'The King and I,' was not only a legendary actor but also a multifaceted artist. His magnetic charisma and distinctive bald head made him an unforgettable Hollywood figure. Beyond acting, Brynner was a director and photographer, a facet of his creativity showcased by his ownership of two rare black paint Leica MP cameras.

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LOT 186

serial number : MP-59

Leica MP black paint no.59 'Yul Brynner' *

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Hammer Price €1,440,000 incl. Buyer's Premium

Estimate €600,000 – 700,000

Details

MP 59

The camera is in very good, original, and unrestored condition, it shows an attractive patina of use around the edges. It is, of course, in perfect working condition. This special Leica includes a matching, sought-after black paint Leicavit MP and a Canon 3.5/25mm lens no.10749.

The Leica MP no.59 and 60 were personal cameras of Brynner, and are now a symbol of Brynner's commitment to the art of photography. However, it is his extensive body of work, consisting of thousands of photographs, that truly exemplifies his photographic prowess. Brynner's photographs tell stories, capturing moments in time with the same dedication and precision he brought to the stage and screen, leaving an enduring legacy in both the worlds of cinema and photography.

I understand that Brynner had a unique gift as a photographer for helping his subjects to relax, and the evidence is here, particularly in the images of Deborah Kerr on the set of 'The King And I' and of Ingrid Bergmann during the shooting of 'Anastasia'. You can also see it in the photos of the extras and the technicians: everyone and everything seems to have been observed from a becalmed distance.

Martin Scorsese

Tip

LOT 187

serial number : MP-60

Leica MP black paint no.60 'Yul Brynner' *

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Hammer Price €1,320,000 incl. Buyer's Premium

Estimate €600,000 – 700,000

Details

MP 60

The camera is in similar cosmetic condition as the MP-59, with an attractive patina of use around the edges, it is also in perfect working condition. This special Leica includes a matching, sought-after black paint Leicavit MP and a rigid chrome Summicron 2/5cm no.1513257.