Books

Rare collection of Warner Brothers promotional materials for the 1949 film The Fountainhead, based on the bestselling novel by Ayn Rand and starring Gary Cooper and Patricia Neal. The collection includes a group of thirteen black and white film stills each approximately 8.25 inches by 10 inches; a Warner Bros. Campaign booklet with examples of advertisements, teasers, and one-column mats for newspaper prints; a poster for Mexican release Uno Contra Todos which measures 16.1 inches by 12.25 inches; a poster for Spanish release El Manantial which measures 26.75 inches by 37 inches; a set of six posters in multiple colors for the Italian release La Fonte Meravigliosa, together with the printed cover sheet, all measuring 26.3 inches by 18.3 inches; and a single page printed email conversation between Fred Weiss and American journalist and novelist Christopher Morley which reads in part, "Christopher: Just came across something interesting that I thought you would like to know about. These are original photographic movie stills from The Fountainhead. I have 8 of them, some great shots and all in near fine condition (a little creasing here and there is all.)" In near fine to fine condition with some creasing to the Spanish poster and email, a closed tear to a few pages and splitting to the joint of the promotional booklet, and some loss and punctures to the corners of the Mexican poster. A rare and excellent example. Directed by King Vidor, and starring Gary Cooper and Patricia Neal, The Fountainhead premiered at Radio City Music Hall on July 2, 1949. For the film's Warner Hollywood Theatre premiere, Warner Bros. erected two banks of bleachers on Hollywood Boulevard to accommodate the expected mob of fans. Ayn Rand wrote the screenplay for the film adaptation herself, but later criticized the editing, production design and acting. Sales of Rand's novel increased following release and despite mixed critical reception at the time, the film has endured as a cultural touchstone, reflecting the enduring appeal of Rand's ideas and the ongoing relevance of her work in contemporary discourse on art, architecture, and individualism.

"The Fountainhead" by Ayn Rand, published in 1943, is a novel that delves into the philosophical concepts of individualism, integrity, and the conflict between creativity and conformity. The story revolves around Howard Roark, an ambitious and talented architect with a unique vision for innovative designs. Roark embodies uncompromising individualism and refuses to conform to societal expectations or compromise his artistic integrity. He believes in creating buildings that reflect his artistic vision rather than pandering to popular architectural trends. As Roark faces the challenges of the architectural world, his unconventional approach draws criticism and opposition from traditional architects and critics. His refusal to adhere to established conventions leads to rejection from architectural firms and clients who prefer safer, more conventional designs. Despite these setbacks, Roark remains steadfast in his commitment to his principles. The novel contrasts Roark’s individualism with Peter Keating, an architect who succeeds by conforming to popular tastes and compromising his artistic integrity. Keating is conventional, willing to sacrifice his own beliefs and ideas to gain social approval and advancement in his career. Dominique Francon, an independent and complex woman, becomes entangled in Roark’s life. Initially skeptical of Roark’s ideas, she becomes fascinated by his integrity and strength of character. Their relationship undergoes various challenges due to Dominique’s inner conflicts and societal pressures. Enter the character of Ellsworth Toohey, a critic who represents collectivism and mediocrity. Toohey seeks to manipulate public opinion and destroy individualistic ideals, advocating conformity and suppressing true talent. The novel culminates in a dramatic trial where Roark defends his artistic integrity against society’s attempts to stifle his individualism. He passionately argues for the right of the creator to maintain control over their work without compromising their vision for the sake of societal norms or approval. Through Roark’s unwavering dedication to his principles, Ayn Rand illustrates her philosophy of objectivism, advocating for individualism, rational self-interest, and the pursuit of personal excellence. "The Fountainhead" serves as a vehicle for Rand’s beliefs in the importance of individual creativity and integrity, and it continues to provoke discussions about the role of the individual in society, the nature of artistic expression, and the conflict between individualism and collectivism.