[CHAPLIN (Charles, 1889-1977, Comedian) and George CARNEY (1887-1947, Vaudeville & Film Actor)]

Engaging Portrait Postcard Photograph, showing them both full length, full face, with delightful smiles, Chaplin in a light outdoor coat, holding a flat motorist's cap, Carney holding a straw boater, in a garden with trees and a house behind, the image has been inscribed in another hand 'Best Wishes from Chharlie [sic] Chaplin George Carney Los Angles [sic] 1928 taken at the Chaplin Studio', blind stamp 'Repro[duction] by S Georges, 25 Villa Road, London S.W.9.', 5" x 3", no place, no date, circa surface slightly raised across in two places without damage, in spite of the inscriptions a delightful image

In spite of the inscriptions, this is a special image of Chaplin, full of the character of the man behind the make-up of the more familiar stage personality.
Chaplin's and Carney's paths had crossed from time to time. Carney had been on the same vaudeville bills as Charles Chaplin senior. Both had been members of the Comedy Company managed by English impresario Fred Karno, 1866-1941. Chaplin joined Karno in 1908 and starred in the American tours of 1910-1911 and 1912-1913. In December 1913 he stayed on in America to work for Mack Sennett and to his rise to fame. George Carney played many character parts in British films from 1934, including the heroine's father in I know where I'm going (1945).
We think this image dates from Chaplin's visit to England and Europe in 1931, (in connection with City Lights), when George Carney was able to tell him about his time with Chaplin's father.

Item Date:  1931

Stock No:  56524