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Lot 199:
Description
This extensive historical archive documents the service of Warrant Officer Richard Douro at the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) in Rocquencourt, France, during the early 1950s. The collection is highlighted by several significant autographed silver gelatin photographs with personal dedications to Douro. These include a portrait of General Dwight D. Eisenhower inscribed For W.O. Richard Douro with best wishes Dwight D Eisenhower SHAPE 1952. Also present is a portrait of General Matthew B. Ridgway, signed and dated 26 August 1951, and multiple photographs signed by General Alfred M. Gruenther. One large portrait of Gruenther is dedicated with grateful appreciation for support at SHAPE, dated 1956, while another informal domestic photograph shows the General and his wife Grace with a joint dedication dated 19 November 1956.
The grouping contains various press and official photographs documenting military ceremonies, high-level meetings of naval and army commanders, and official state visits. Notable items include a photograph of HM Queen Elizabeth II and HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, during an official visit to SHAPE.
Documentation and ephemera include a typed letter on The White House Washington stationery dated 29 December 1955, signed by Milton S. Eisenhower, as well as various typed letters and administrative documents on official SHAPE letterhead. Several items are preserved in protective plastic sleeves. A wooden measuring rule is visible in the background of some images to provide a sense of scale for the larger portrait photographs.
Condition report:
The collection is in overall good vintage condition. The silver gelatin photographs exhibit characteristics typical of their age, including minor silvering to the edges, light surface scuffing, and occasional corner wear. Paper documents and letters show natural age-toning and original mailing fold lines. The manuscript signatures and inscriptions remain clear and well-preserved.
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