Rare Grinch animation art from the 1966 classic is going to auction. Hand-picked from Chuck Jones’ archive—this is a collector’s dream.
DALLAS— In celebration of the Golden Anniversary of Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas, Heritage Auctions will be offering the largest collection of original animation art from the animated Christmas special. The auction is part of Heritage Auctions animation art sale. This historic event will take place on June 11 in Dallas. It will showcase rare pieces from the personal archives of legendary animator Chuck Jones.
A portion of the auction proceeds will benefit the Chuck Jones Center for Creativity in Orange County, California.
Animation Art Auction Highlights
The Heritage Auctions animation art sale will include 27 original pieces. They all relate to the genesis and making of Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Expectations are that three exceptionally rare Key Master Set-Ups from the landmark cartoon, original artworks by Chuck Jones and Maurice Nobel used in the making of the cartoon will drive auction prices very high. In addition, a plethora of important animation cels along with original Chuck Jones Grinch paintings featuring the characters of the Christmas classic are already generating excitement among collectors.
One of the major highlights of the auction is a remarkable hand-painted production cel of the Grinch. In it, the Grinch looks into a hand mirror in the mouth of his faithful pooch Max as he completes his Santa costume. A spectacular offering, this significant artwork is on the Key Master Hand-painted Production background from the scene in which the only one was made and used for the production. It has an estimate of more than $25,000.
Another major highlight of the Animation Art auction is one of the first concept drawings of the Grinch by Chuck Jones. Listed as one of the earliest drawings of the Grinch character by the animator, the Grinch has a protruding belly. Accompanying the drawing is one of the first hand-painted cels of the Grinch. It has an estimate of more than $10,000.
Grinch Animation Art from the Chuck Jones Archives
Jim Lentz, Director of Animation Art Auction at Heritage Auctions describes the collection as one of a kind:
This is an unprecedented offering and, more importantly than anything else, it comes directly from the Chuck Jones Personal Archives, chosen specifically by Jones’ daughter, Linda and his grandson Craig Kausen.”
Chuck Jones is an important figure in American animation. He brought the Grinch to life with his distinctive style, alongside production designer Maurice Noble. Their collaborative genius is evident throughout this collection.
A Beloved Holiday Classic Turns 50
Originally released in 1966, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a classic. It has become one of the most cherished holiday specials of all time. Narrated by Boris Karloff and adapted from Dr. Seuss’ book, the animated version has continued to delight audiences for generations.
This 50th-anniversary auction not only honors that legacy but provides fans a rare chance to own part of it.
Supporting Creative Education
In addition to celebrating Chuck Jones and Dr. Seuss’ legacy, this auction will support a good cause. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Chuck Jones Center for Creativity. The nonprofit organization is dedicated to nurturing creativity in children and adults through art and storytelling.
