The Fine Art & Collectibles Sale
Lot 69:
Description
4 3/4 x 3 1/8 in (12.1 x 8.1 cm)
Provenance and Authentication:
This lot is accompanied by supporting documentation provided by the consignor. According to the accompanying materials, the signature was reviewed with reference to factors including ink characteristics, material aging, stylistic consistency, and historical context. These materials relate to the reported signature, provenance, and authentication history of the piece, and are presented as received for bidder review in accordance with the auction terms and conditions.
This vintage gelatin silver photograph captures an introspective moment featuring Charlie Chaplin in his iconic Tramp persona. Seated on a wooden bench, Chaplin gazes forward with his signature melancholy charm, while a poised young woman sits beside him in quiet composure. At the top of the photograph, Chaplin has inscribed a personal message in black ink: "With Thanks, Charlie Chaplin." The autograph is fluid, confident, and unmistakably his, adding deep historical resonance to the image.
More than a publicity still, this silver gelatin photograph offers a rare convergence of cinematic presence and photographic excellence. Though the identity of the woman remains unconfirmed, her appearance and attire strongly suggest she was involved in Chaplin’s early 1920s productions, such as The Kid or The Idle Class. The image may have been taken on set or during a candid off-camera moment, reinforcing the intimate and narrative quality of the composition.
The gelatin silver process, renowned for its tonal richness and archival permanence, elevates this photograph far beyond standard imagery. It stands as a testament to both the craft of early 20th-century photography and the enduring legacy of Charlie Chaplin. Enhanced by his authentic signature, this photograph bridges the worlds of visual art, film history, and celebrity culture – a truly exceptional collectible.
Condition: ALL PROPERTY IS SOLD AS IS, WHERE IS, WITH NO RETURNS OR CANCELLATIONS.
Additional photographs and condition reports may be provided upon request as a courtesy only. Any condition report, catalogue description, image, certificate, report, document, authentication statement, authentication opinion, specialist opinion, or communication regarding origin, date, age, attribution, authenticity, authorship, signature, condition, provenance, or value is an opinion only and not a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Yakon Auctions.
The absence of reference to defects, restoration, wear, damage, handling marks, conservation, alteration, or repair does not mean the lot is free from such matters. Photographs are for reference only and may not accurately reflect color, tone, dimensions, condition, signature details, or the true state of the lot. Buyers should review all images carefully, as they form part of the description.
Provenance is provided by the consignor, prior owner, or most recent owner and may not be supported by records. All reports, COAs, appraisals, authentication letters, provenance statements, invoices, labels, or related documents, including any opinions, analyses, or conclusions therein, are provided as received from the consignor, prior owner, or third party, and have not been independently verified by Yakon Auctions. Such materials are for reference only and are not guarantees of authenticity, authorship, signature, origin, age, period, provenance, condition, or value.
All artworks, antiques, collectibles, autographed items, signed memorabilia, music memorabilia, records, photographs, posters, entertainment collectibles, and related items are offered based on information and documentation provided with the lot. Unless expressly stated, Yakon Auctions has not independently authenticated any signature, inscription, attribution, authorship, association, provenance, pressing detail, edition, period, origin, or related documentation.
Terms such as "attributed to, " "after, " "manner of, " "circle of, " "school of, " "in the artist’s style, " or similar language mean the lot is not guaranteed to be by the named artist, maker, signer, studio, or period. Exact authorship, origin, attribution, or date may be unknown, and the lot may not be included in any official catalogue raisonné, archive, registry, or recognized reference source.
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