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This exceptional set of four original storyboard drawings was created for the climactic sequence in The Aristocats (1970), near the film's ending, when Edgar Balthazar attempts to lock Duchess and her kittens inside a trunk bound for Timbuktu. In the final cut, O'Malley drops onto Edgar as he pushes the trunk toward the barn door, triggering the chaotic fight that follows. These story sketches, however, reveal an alternate exploration of the sequence, mapping out a progression of events that differs subtly from what appears on screen.

Believed to be the work of Vance Gerry (1929-2005), these drawings embody the expressive, cinematic quality that defined his storytelling. Gerry was one of Walt Disney Studios' most respected story and layout artists, contributing to The Aristocats, The Rescuers, and later The Fox and the Hound. His linework combines immediacy with control, giving personality and rhythm to even the roughest sketch. Each stroke feels alive, conveying emotion and motion with remarkable economy.

This storyboard sequence illustrates the crucial role of visual storytelling in Disney's production process. Story artists like Gerry worked closely with director Woolie Reitherman and story supervisor Ken Anderson, developing action through rough sketches before a single frame of animation was produced. The conte crayon medium allowed for quick tonal shifts and strong contrasts, ideal for communicating both pacing and atmosphere during story pitch sessions.

Drawn in conte crayon, these story sketches map out the rapid pacing and physical comedy of this key sequence, before the cats launch their counterattack. A rare surviving example of Disney story development from this period, this set offers a vivid glimpse into how artists like Vance Gerry shaped character and emotion long before the final animation was completed. The paper exhibits some minor smudging and pinholes. Dimensions (each): 11.5 cm x 19 cm (4.5" x 7.5")

Sold without copyright; see copyright notice in the Terms and Conditions.

Estimate: £700 - 1,400 Ω

View all lots from ARISTOCATS, THE (1970)