A piece of Old Hollywood history has hit the market in Los Angeles, with the custom-built estate of 1930s screen legend Jean Harlow listed for US$16.8 million (approximately AUD$26.8 million).
The Colonial Revival mansion in the prestigious Holmby Hills neighbourhood was constructed around 1932 specifically for the Hollywood star, who lived there until her death in 1937 at age 26.
Set behind original magnolia trees on 1.32 private acres, the red-brick residence offers 7,367 square feet of living space with four bedrooms and seven bathrooms.
The property retains several original features from Jean’s era, including built-in arched bookcases in the library, boiserie paneling, crown mouldings, and a marble fireplace in the formal living room.
Perhaps the most intriguing feature is a Prohibition-era bar concealed behind a bookcase door – a space where Jean was frequently photographed entertaining guests.
“There are even subtle, personal markings, scratchings in the walls from Jean and her circle, that give the home a rare, intimate connection to its past,” listing agent David Kramer at Compass told People.
The grounds include a large pool with the original diving board and spa, a two-story pool house with balcony and French doors adding 1,320 square feet, a full-size tennis court, koi ponds, waterfalls, greenhouses, and nature paths. A temperature-controlled wine cellar completes the amenity list.
The sellers purchased the property for US$1.1 million in 1979, according to the Wall Street Journal.
The family made significant additions over their decades of ownership, including the tennis court, koi ponds, greenhouses, an expanded kitchen, the wine cellar, and a second story on the pool house.
When they acquired the property, it was reportedly overgrown and required extensive landscaping.
Jean, known for films including Bombshell, Hell’s Angels, and Platinum Blonde, remains one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures.
View the listing here.