Tom McNeely (Canadian, B. 1935) "Charlie Chaplin" Signed and dated lower right. Original Watercolor. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 29c Charlie Chaplin stamp issued April 27, 1994. A derby hat, tight frock coat, baggy trousers, oversized shoes, thick black moustache and a twirling cane. These are the unmistakable features of just one character -- Charlie Chaplin's loveable "Little Tramp." While making his second motion picture, 1914's Kid Auto Races at Venice, Chaplin hit upon the mismatched garb that ultimately launched his famed screen persona and successful film career. Believing that a comedian should be in "intense sympathy" with his characters, this gifted actor carefully honed each movement to convincingly portray one of the silent screen's most popular attractions. A trademark waddle and whirling cane, combined with a vast repertoire of facial expressions, enabled the Little Tramp character to succeed in a medium devoid of spoken dialogue. Audiences around the world flocked to see the antics of the shabbily-dressed soul who entertained them in such classics as The Kid, City Lights and the 1940 "talkie," The Great Dictator -- Chaplin's daring attack on fascism. Given the opportunity to forget their troubles, generations of moviegoers have embraced the work of this comic genius and master of pantomime. Today, 80 years after his first appearance, the Little Tramp remains one of the most recognizable faces of the silent screen era. Image Size: 21.75 x 18.75 in. Overall Size: 21.25 x 18.75 in. Unframed. (B14722)