This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/28/2024
[BLUE, Ben (1901-1975), subject]. DUNLAP, Axie (American, 1916-1990). Portrait of Actor-Comedian Ben Blue. 20th century. Oil on canvas. Signed by the artist near the lower right corner. Sight approximately 23 ½ x 17 ½”. Framed. Frame size approximately 26 ½ x 20 ½”. Fine. Offered with three black and white photos of Ben Blue in Charlie Chaplin costume. [Ca. 1950s]. Sight of each photo approximately 9 x 7”. Photos are matted and framed under glass together. Frame size approximately 10 ¾ x 23 ½”. Photos a bit toned, mat soiled, some wear to frame. These photos were probably on display in one of Blue’s nightclubs. Very good. Neither item was examined out of frame. Blue was famous for his impression of Chaplin, and so these photos are of particular interest. Ben Blue had a lengthy career of over 50 years as an actor and comedian, making numerous appearances on stage, film and television (some film appearances include The Big Broadcast of 1938; It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963); The Russians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming (1966); and many more). He was also a nightclub owner, owning and operating several nightclubs, including the famous “Ben Blue’s” in Santa Monica, CA, (opening in 1960) which was a popular nightspot with the glitterati; it closed three years later due to Blue’s ongoing health issues. Axie Dunlap was Blue’s second wife, and they were from 1940 until his death in 1975.