Hi Randy,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

“The Sheik” (1921) starring Rudolph Valentino and Agnes Ayres is significant for several reasons, especially in the context of film history and popular culture. This film catapulted Valentino to international stardom and made him one of the first true male sex symbols of Hollywood’s silent era. His portrayal of the mysterious and romantic desert sheik made him a heartthrob, inspiring “Valentinomania” among fans, particularly young women. “The Sheik” popularized the exotic romance genre, with its Middle Eastern desert setting, passionate love story, and themes of forbidden desire. It set a template for many “Orientalist” adventure romances that Hollywood and other studios would produce in the 1920s and beyond.

This lobby card comes up at auction from time to time; recently sold examples have brought prices ranging from $75-125, depending on condition. I can see from the photo that the edges have cracked; this would likely sell at auction between $50-75.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An antique 1921 Lobby Card for "The Sheik"
A George Melford production for Paramount Pictures, starring Rudolph Valentino and Agnes Ayres.
11 by 14 inches
CONDITION: With wear
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$50-75*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia