SALVATORE FERRAGAMO – SIGNED DEDICATION (1950s) – ORIGINAL AUTOGRAPH Italian Fashion Designer – “Shoemaker to the Stars”

A fine and scarce signed dedication from Salvatore Ferragamo (1898–1960), one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th century and founder of the Ferragamo luxury house. Known internationally as the “Shoemaker to the Stars,” Ferragamo designed footwear for Hollywood icons including Mary Pickford, Gloria Swanson, Joan Crawford, and Greta Garbo, later establishing his world‑renowned workshop in Florence.

This elegant inscription — written in Ferragamo’s characteristic upright Italian hand — reads:

“To Mr. J. H. H. Gaute con profonda riconoscenza S. Ferragamo”

The phrase “con profonda riconoscenza” translates as “with deep gratitude.” The pencil notation “Salvatore Ferragamo” is a later identification added by a collector or archivist.

The sheet is clean, well‑preserved, and presents beautifully for framing or archival display. Ferragamo autograph material is not common, and of this type are highly sought after by collectors of fashion history, luxury‑brand ephemera, and mid‑century design.

Guaranteed authentic and as described. A fine example of Ferragamo’s mid‑century autograph style.

Provenance: 

From a single owner collection of 3,000+ items. A chaotic uncatalogued miscellany of items from 17th to 20th Century. 

Containing, amongst many other things: ALSs (Autograph Letters Signed); Signed Photos, Posters, Ephemera, Album pages; Clipped Signatures; Signed Free Fronts; Misc Manuscript Items; etc, etc.  

Salvatore Ferragamo (Jun 1898 – Aug 1960) was an Italian shoe designer. Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in 20th-century footwear design, he was known for combining artisanal craftsmanship with technical innovation. Ferragamo pioneered new construction methods that emphasized comfort, balance, and structural support while maintaining elegance. His shoes were worn by leading figures of Hollywood, earning him the nickname “Shoemaker to the Stars.”