Original press photograph of Leatrice Joy being presented a "star contract" by Cecil B. DeMille and Jesse L. Lasky, 1924

Los Angeles: Paramount Pictures, 1924. Vintage borderless press photograph of Leatrice Joy being presented a "star contract" from producer and Paramount founder Jesse L. Lasky, supported by director Cecil B. DeMille in 1924. Mimeo snipe printed on verso.

Debuting as an extra in 1917, Joy soon was soon cast opposite comics Billy West and Oliver Hardy, when she caught the attention of DeMille, becoming one of his protegees and starring in several of his films. Often cast as an archetypal 1920s "strong-willed independent woman," Joy impulsively cut her hair extremely short in 1926, much to DeMille's dismay, and is generally credited with starting the bobbed-hair craze of the 1920s. She largely retired after the advent of sound, taking only a few supporting roles through the 1930s 1940s, and 1950s.

8.5 x 7 inches. Very Good plus, evenly faded with light creasing.

[Book #151930]