Original Drawing of The Grinch.

RAY, Tom [Dr. Seuss].

$6,500.00

Item Number: 148223

Rare original drawing of The Grinch from the 1966 film How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Graphite and colored pencil on animation paper of a smiling Grinch preparing to slide down a chimney. Inscribed by Tom Ray, “…as he climed to the roof.” In fine condition. The piece measures 10.5 inches by 12.5 inches. A unique piece.

Tom Ray (1919–2010) was a master animator known for his work in the Golden Age of American animation, contributing to studios such as Warner Bros., MGM, and later, Hanna-Barbera. Beginning his career in 1937 under the mentorship of legendary animator Chuck Jones, Ray played a crucial role in the development of iconic Looney Tunes characters, animating beloved shorts featuring Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Wile E. Coyote. His expertise extended into television animation, where he worked on series like Tom and Jerry, The Jetsons, The Smurfs, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, shaping the look and movement of animated characters across multiple generations. Ray's technical precision, expressive character animation, and ability to adapt to evolving animation styles solidified his reputation as an influential figure in the industry. After convincing Theodore Geisel ("Dr. Seuss") to allow him to make a television film based on How the Grinch Stole Christmas!, Chuck Jones set to putting together a team of his best animators to work on the project, with Tom Ray being one of his first recruits. The cartoon special was a great success, with special praise heaped upon the work of the animation team.