Rotund motion picture actor and director (1887-1933). In 1921, at the peak of his fame, Arbuckle was accused of complicity in the death of actress Virginia Rappe after a wild party. He was acquitted of manslaughter, but the scandal ruined his career. Vintage matte-finish 8 x 10 photo, signed and inscribed in fountain pen “To Madeline and Claude, With all my Love and sincere Best wishes. Roscoe. San Francisco, Oct. 23rd, 1921.” Also signed in pencil by the photographer. A pencil notation on the back reads, “Taken in his suite in Paris in 1920.” Creasing and soiling to the borders, missing lower right corner, and a smudge to the photographer’s signature, otherwise fine condition. The faults do not interfere with the otherwise crisp image.
The date on this image rests between two life-changing events in the famed actor’s life. On September 5, 1921, Arbuckle took a break from a hectic film schedule and drove to San Francisco with two friends. It was while in town that he entertained guests, including Rappe, in a private hotel suite. Following her death, Arbuckle was arrested and charged with manslaughter. His first trial began on November 14, 1921, less than a month after dispatching this image. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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