Whimsical Christmas tree prop used in the production of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas

593. The Nightmare Before Christmas: Production-Used Christmas Tree Prop. (Touchstone Pictures, 1993) Rare original whimsical Christmas tree prop from the set of the town hall interior in Tim Burton’s stop-motion classic The Nightmare Before Christmas, measuring approximately 23.5˝ tall and set upon an 11˝ x 11˝ black wooden base. The sparse tree is decorated with shimmering garland, lights, and ornaments (a Santa Claus, a candy cane, and several traditional balls), and is topped by a yellow star. Includes a custom-made plexiglass display case with mirrored back. In fine condition.

Provenance: Part of Lot 752, “Town Hall Interior with Puppets,” Sotheby’s Animation Art Auction, December 16, 1993. Accompanied by the original Sotheby’s lot tag, catalog, and a certificate of authenticity from The Walt Disney Company. The consignor notes that this was one of three such Christmas trees made for the production of The Nightmare Before Christmas.

In the ‘Town Hall Interior’ scene, Jack Skellington strives to explain the concept of Christmas to his friends and Halloween Town neighbors. A desirable production prop from a popular Tim Burton movie. Starting Bid $200

Rathbone signs a Sherlock Holmes portrait for its artist:

594. Basil Rathbone Signed Sketch of Sherlock Holmes. Original sketch of Rathbone in his enduring role as Sherlock Holmes, accomplished in pencil by M. H. Herrin on an off-white 9.25 x 11.75 cardstock sheet, boldly signed below in fountain pen. “Congratulations on what looks to me like an excellent likeness. Cordially, Basil Rathbone.” Dated in the margin in pencil, “4-26-40.” In fine condition. Starting Bid $200