[Vaudeville] Weber and Fields [Weber, Joe. (1867 - 1942) & Fields, Lew. (1867-1941)] Grossmith, Weedon. (1854-1919)
Signed Caricature Drawing
An amusing original caricature drawing of the popular vaudeville duo Weber and Fields by the English writer, artist and actor Weedon Grossmith, signed and inscribed to Weber and Fields by Grossmith at the foot, and additionally signed and inscribed by Weber and Fields to Siegfried H. Kahn at the head. Grossmith has drawn the comedy duo as a pair of opposites, one short and fat, the other tall and thin; he inscribes the drawing with "thanks for a very enjoyable afternoon. Excuse bad drawing." Drawn on a bifolium of lined notepaper; overall toning except for a narrow border around the drawing, with some small tears and wear. Overall in very good condition. 5.25 x 8.5 inches (13.5 x 21.4 cm).The American vaudeville duo Weber and Fields began their career while still children, making their first stage appearance at Miner's Bowery Theater, New York in 1885. Their slapstick, rough-house, English-garbling antics soon caught on and they toured successfully for many years, becoming one of the most popular and profitable acts in vaudeville. In 1896, the partners opened the Weber and Fields Music Hall, where they produced very successful burlesques of popular Broadway shows.
Weedon Grossmith, brother of the celebrated Gilbert and Sullivan star George Grossmith, is best-known as the co-author (with George) and illustrator of the satirical novel Diary of a Nobody. Trained as an artist, Weedon took to the stage at the encouragement of Richard D'Oyly Carte, when his artistic career proved unsuccessful. He was known for his comedy roles as harassed, scheming villains, although he was also an author, playwright, and impresario.
Siegfried H. Kahn was a member of the famed New York Bohemian Club and a famous host of musical parties in the 1920's and 30's. (9941)
Signed Document/Item Art Theater