Jimmy Durante Letter
archival pairing of a photograph showing the famous American entertainer Jimmy Durante and a handwritten, signed note from him.The Photograph The Subject: Jimmy Durante (1893–1980), the iconic comedian, actor, singer, and pianist known for his prominent nose (the "Schnozzola"), gravelly voice, and catchphrases.The Scene: Durante is holding a sandwich in one hand while his other hand rests on a giant billiard 8-ball, a playful, surreal visual gag typical of mid-century promotional or comedic photography.The Handwritten Note The yellowed paper below the photograph serves as a guestbook entry or a testimonial for a restaurant.The Logo: At the top is a diamond logo for "DORRCO" featuring the cities New York, London, Los Angeles, and Paris. This belongs to The Dorr Company, an engineering firm founded by John V. N. Dorr.The Venue: Below the logo, it reads "Doll's House, Palm Springs," referencing a famous historic restaurant and nightclub in Palm Springs, California, which was a popular desert getaway for Hollywood stars.The Inscription: In Jimmy Durante's handwriting, the note reads:"If I ate food like this every day I would blow up like a Balloon 'Its Swell.'"The Signature: It is signed at the bottom: 'Jimmy Durante "Hotcha"'. "Hotcha!" was one of his signature, trademark exclamation catchphrases.
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