For your consideration is this original photograph of famous Western movie actor, William S. Hart (1864-1946) signed by him from the 1920-30s. William S. Hart (1864–1946) was a silent cinema actor, director, and producer who helped shape the Western genre. Hart was born on December 6, 1864, in Newburgh, New York, and raised in the Midwest, where he learned about the frontier lifestyle and Native American culture. He started his career as a Shakespearean stage actor, appearing in classic plays like Hamlet and Macbeth before moving on to Western-themed parts. Hart entered the cinema profession in 1914, at the age of 50, and made his impact with The Bargain. His portrayal of cowboys differed significantly from the exaggerated portrayals of the time, as he attempted to add reality and historical truth to his characters. Hart swiftly established himself as one of the first true Western film stars, collaborating with producer Thomas H. Ince and directing a number of his own films. He was best known for portraying gruff yet decent characters who frequently sought redemption in films such as Hell's Hinges (1916), The Toll Gate (1920), and Tumbleweeds (1925). After retiring, Hart concentrated on authoring books on the Old West and his Hollywood experience. His impact on the Western genre was considerable, paving the way for succeeding actors such as John Wayne and Clint Eastwood, who adopted his serious, character-driven style. Hart spent his later years on his ranch near Newhall, California, which is now known as the William S. Hart Museum. He passed away on June 23, 1946. This photo shows William staring sternly at the viewer as he wears his Western clothing. It is signed in the bottom left by William and signed to a well known actress in Tucson, Arizona. The photograph is double matted with white and blue matting paper and is set in a black colored frame. The frame and photo show good condition overall with little to no wear present. The visible photo measures 13 1/2" L x 9 7/8" W, while the entire piece measures 20 1/4" L x 16 1/4" W x 1" D. It weighs 3 pounds and 12 ounces. Provenance: From the Tombstone Western Heritage Museum in Tombstone, Arizona.