It has just occurred to me that I'm a total dingbat. Really... I am. Probably the most important vintage auction of the year has passed me by without a single post sharing some of the treasures it holds. I've just been so distracted... so, apologize for that.I plan on making up for it over the next several days, if not weeks, since REA's annual event really is something of a collectors paradise. They handle some of the more cherished cards and memorabilia the hobby has to offer.
In fact, check out the main subject of this post. As you may know, the Dodgers have really only had one mascot in its history. It was the Brooklyn Bum who was first drawn and conceived by legendary sports cartoonist Willard Mullin. His drawing was found around anything Dodger related in the 40's and 50's, and symbolizes both the love and despair felt by the Brooklyn faithful. The Bum was both cartoonish and playful while typifying how much suffering the borough had endured following their boys on the field. Nothing is more emblematic of the team than Mullin's creation, and it's doubtful anything every will be.
In the REA offering there was a incredible statue made by Mullin of the Brooklyn Bum, and it is only one of two known to exist. See the photo below showing Mullin sculpting it. The statue dates to 1950 and was originally a prototype for a lamp to be sold to the general public. Unfortunately, the venture never got off the ground, but at least we have this statue to glare at. It is an incredible piece that should be in some museum somewhere. I'm hopeful a local collector purchased it for a future exhibit that we can all enjoy. This statue sold for $8,500.00.
(Auction Link)
