Random Non-Louise Photo: Lillian Gish in a pair of gorgeous portraits by James Abbe for the film “Broken Blossoms” (1919). These photos were from the first of Lillian’s sittings for Abbe and marked the beginning of their extensive and productive relationship.

A globe-hopping photographer of celebrities — film, stage, politics — Abbe (L) relocated from the U.S. to Italy in 1923 at Lillian’s request to shoot photos for the filming of “The White Sister.” Their work together helped launch his career. (R) Charlie Chaplin by Abbe, 1922:

More classic Abbe: Norma Talmadge, 1923 and Adele and Fred Astaire, 1920. Abbe eventually made Paris his home base but traveled the world extensively. Abbe’s photos of Louise in 1929 are among her very best. More on that tomorrow.