CHARLIE McCARTHY RARE WILL-GEORGE PORCELAIN FIGURINE.
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Starting Bid:
$575.00 (Includes 15% Buyer's Premium)
Bids:
0
Bidding Ended:
Thursday, March 26, 2009 1:00:00 PM (20 Minute Clock Begins At Thursday, March 26, 2009 1:00:00 PM)
Time Left:
Ended
Auction:
Auction #197 - Part II
Item numbers 992 through 2667 in auction 197
Value Code:
K - $1,000 to $2,000 Help Icon
Item Description
4" dia. base. 8.5" tall figure. c. late 1930s-early 1940s. High quality, detailed figurine of Charlie in top hat and tails holding wood cane in extended arm. Other hand holds bouquet of fabric flowers. Marked on bottom "Will-George/Pasadena." This pottery company was founded in 1934 by brothers William and George Klimes. In the late 30s their work came to the attention of actor Edgar Bergen who was impressed enough to finance their business. This figurine was a special order from Bergen to likely give as Valentine Day gifts. About 10 were produced and went directly to Bergen. In keeping with the Valentine theme Charlie originally held a bow and arrow to smbolize Cupid's bow and arrow. However when the figure was damaged in the 1989 San Francisco earthquake, bow and arrow were replaced with the wood cane and fabric flowers. Professional repair was also done to legs, arm and tiny chip on base. All repair is very well done and barely (if at all) noticeable. The Will George company became famous for its high quality, true to life figurines similar in quality to those produced by Royal Doulton. Great care was taken to execute a finely-detailed face with original metal monacle, hands and body. A fine example of a delightful well made high quality figurine. Displays Exc.
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