Frances Marion (American, 1888-1973), Mother and Daughter

Oil on canvas, monogrammed on verso, inscribed "Marion Thomson" to verso of frame, presented in a wood frame.

30 1/2 x 24 in.; Frame dimensions 39 3/4 x 33 1/2 in.

Frances Marion (1888–1973) was one of the most influential screenwriters of Hollywood’s early studio era and among the first women to achieve major prominence in the film industry. Before entering cinema, Marion worked as a commercial artist, illustrator, and journalist, contributing to newspapers and magazines in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Her artistic training and experience as a reporter sharpened her observational skills and visual storytelling, qualities that later became hallmarks of her screenwriting career.

Marion transitioned into film in the 1910s and went on to become one of MGM’s most successful screenwriters, writing more than 100 screenplays during the silent and early sound eras. She collaborated closely with stars including Mary Pickford and won Academy Awards for The Big House (1930) and The Champ (1931). Celebrated for her emotionally nuanced storytelling and strong character development, Marion helped define early American cinema while opening doors for future generations of women in Hollywood. Her son, Frederick Clifton Thomson, later served on the faculty of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Age cracking, otherwise good estate condition.