Known as the American Grimaldi, George L. Fox (1825 -1877) introduced Grimaldi's style of violent slapstick and topical satire to the American stage. He transformed it into a distinctly American style of humor reflecting the events of his day. His whiteface character became an important part of popular American imagery, being used in advertisements and children's books long after his death. During what turned out to be his last performance, Mr. Fox wandered off the stage and into the seats, seemingly dazed and confused. One retelling mentions that he attacked members of the audience. Perhaps ... there he sang a torch song, sad for what he was losing. Heartbroken that he was losing himself. A cast member was able to detain him and he was taken out of the theatre. Sent to an insane asylum he remained there until his death some two years later succumbing to dementia. The cause of death was listed as lead poisoning from his clown make up.

These are graphite drawings. The paper size of each image is 18"x24"or24"x18" on Lanaquarelle 140lb, hot pressed white. There are a total of 12 images in the series.

For the price of any drawing please do not hesitate to contact the artist.

Click on the thumbnails for a larger image.