Marc Davis

Marc Davis was regarded by Walt Disney as his very own “Renaissance man.” Davis began his career working on Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, a film that would break the boundaries of what animation could achieve. As one of Walt’s core animators he is known as a member of Disney’s Nine Old Men, and worked on nine other films including Sleeping Beauty, Peter Pan, and Bambi during his tenure at the company. With Davis’s knack for the art of animation, his work has been highly sought after and RR Auction has featured several Davis offerings from his extensive career.

Davis made his mark on Disney films by introducing audiences to some of animation’s most memorable female characters. The conniving Cruella De Vil from One hundred and One Dalmatians and the powerful Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty are revered as Disney’s cruelest villains. Along with his memorable villainesses, Davis brought to life the source of faith, trust, and pixie dust. Peter Pan’s Tinker Bell is remembered for her sassy attitude and petite stature, and Davis’s interpretation is often the one many people think of when they hear the name Tinker Bell. Production drawings are always a must for any animation art collectors, and RR Auction has offered several productions done by Davis depicting his beloved characters. 

This original production drawing from 1953’s Peter Pan depicts his iconic iteration of Tinker Bell along with his handwritten signature. You’ll also find that we have offered two Maleficent pieces signed by Davis. This original production drawing of Maleficent in her flowing cloak with her arms raised realized $1,238 at RR Auction. Production cels, especially limited edition ones like this Davis signed cel of Maleficent displaying her powerful magic have also been prominently featured in our animation auctions. However, Davis not only lent his skills to Disney’s animation department, but as an imagineer for the Disneyland park.

Before the films became a worldwide hit, The Pirates of the Caribbean began its life as a Disneyland attraction in 1967. As a member of the imagineering team, Davis was tasked with contributing concept ideas for several rides that are still enjoyed by park goers to this day. Several of Davis’ pieces of concept art for the Pirates ride have made their way through our doors at RR Auction, including three pieces that sold for a combined amount of over $40,000. In his work, Davis visualized scenes that would fill riders with feelings of treachery and humor, elements that were adopted into the memorable film franchise.

With RR Auction’s years of experience with animation art, our professionals will help you sell your Marc Davis pieces for the best price possible. Call us at 800-937-3880 or fill out our consignment form below – see how much your Davis pieces could be worth!