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Description

The High Sign (Metro Pictures, 1921). Fine on Linen. One Sheet (27" X 41").
Never before offered by Heritage, we are proud to present this incredibly rare one sheet for the 1921 Buster Keaton two-reel silent short, The High Sign. Though released after 1920's One Week, The High Sign was actually the first independent film made by Keaton, being delayed due to Keaton's concerns over its quality. Employing his signature stone face and acrobatic-like control over his physicality, the short sees Keaton as a drifter who cons his way into a criminal gang, as well as their intended victim, by faking gun-slinging skills, ultimately leading to a comedy of errors in a booby-trapped house. The title refers to the hand signal made by the film's gang, The Blinking Buzzards, and is displayed gorgeously by Keaton in this artwork made all the more dynamic by the bold buzzard positioned directly above him. Light touchup and airbrushing has been applied primarily along the borders and folds to address fold wear, small crossfold separation, slight fold separation, a few minor chips, tears, and small paper loss along the left border/within the left green background. Additionally, many of the chips as well as the paper loss has been further addressed with replacement.


Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.



Auction Info

Auction Dates
March, 2025
27th-28th Thursday-Friday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 7
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 549

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% on the first $1,000,000 (minimum $29), plus 20% of any amount between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000, plus 15% of any amount over $5,000,000 per lot.

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Sold on Mar 27, 2025 for: $38,750.00
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