Dorothy's Ruby Slippers
Costume/Prop (Pair of shoes) • Gilbert Adrian (Chief Costume Designer for MGM), Western Costume Co. (Manufacturer)
Style & Movement
Hollywood Golden Age / Cinema Memorabilia
Medium & Technique
Sequined silk pumps. Red sequins sewn on burgundy georgette fabric; bow features bugle beads, glass stones, and sequins; leather soles and felt-covered bases for sound muffling.
Creation Period
circa 1938-1939
Dimensions & Format
Approximately size 5 or 6 (women's); roughly 9 inches in length each.
Subject Description
Iconic magical footwear worn by Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale in the film 'The Wizard of Oz'. They represent the concept of 'home' and the transition from black-and-white to Technicolor cinema.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (considering age and use). Sequins show minor oxidation/discoloration; light wear on soles consistent with film production use.
Estimated Market Value
$2,000,000 - $6,000,000 (based on rarity and cultural value)
Auction Estimate
$3,000,000 - $5,000,000
Provenance History
MGM Prop Department; retrieved by Kent Warner in 1970; various private collections; acquired by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2012.
Art Historical Significance
One of the most recognizable artifacts in cinematic history; symbolizes the peak of the Technicolor era and American pop culture global impact.
Notable Features
Hand-sewn sequins; felt on soles (applied to dampen the sound of dancing on the 'Yellow Brick Road'); 'Judy Garland' written inside some pairs by wardrobe staff.
Condition Issues
Fading of some red dyes to a brownish-orange hue; loose threads; minor sequin loss; fragile adhesive on the insoles.
Conservation Recommendations
Store in low-light, temperature-controlled environment (68F/50% RH). Use acid-free supports. Prevent UV exposure to avoid further fading of the red dye.