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American naturalist and ornithologist, best known for the publication of "The Birds of America," which depicted over 300 species of birds individually stone lithographed and hand-colored. A hand-written copy of a bill concerning Audubon's engraver in London. Several lines in one section are written in Audubon's hand, authorizing payments. Elegantly signed "John J. Audubon." An attractive, fine and very rare document. $5200.00
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Irving Berlin (1888-1989) was arguably the most prolific songwriter of the 20th Century writing over 1200 songs during his career and achieving greatness in a field for which he had no formal training. His first hit song, "Alexander's Ragtime Band" took the country by storm selling over one million copies of sheet music in only a few months. Other hits written by Berlin include "God Bless America," "Puttin' On The Ritz," "Blue Skies" and "Cheek To Cheek."
He triumphed on the Broadway stage in shows such as Call Me Madam and Annie Get Your Gun and on the big screen in films such as Easter Parade and White Christmas. It was for the title song of White Christmas that he received the 1942 Academy Award for Original Best Song. "White Christmas" would go on to become the most popular Christmas single of all time.
This 4-page program was for a wartime, all-soldier, staged musical production called "This Is the Army" with music and lyrics by Irving Berlin. Presented at the Allied Military Theatre in Santa Maria, CA, the production was directed by Berlin and performed for the Fifth Army Special Service. The program includes the musical numbers and names of the soldiers who performed. It is signed on the front "Irving Berlin." Some mounting traces remain on the back page but otherwise it is in very good condition. $850.00
He triumphed on the Broadway stage in shows such as Call Me Madam and Annie Get Your Gun and on the big screen in films such as Easter Parade and White Christmas. It was for the title song of White Christmas that he received the 1942 Academy Award for Original Best Song. "White Christmas" would go on to become the most popular Christmas single of all time.
This 4-page program was for a wartime, all-soldier, staged musical production called "This Is the Army" with music and lyrics by Irving Berlin. Presented at the Allied Military Theatre in Santa Maria, CA, the production was directed by Berlin and performed for the Fifth Army Special Service. The program includes the musical numbers and names of the soldiers who performed. It is signed on the front "Irving Berlin." Some mounting traces remain on the back page but otherwise it is in very good condition. $850.00
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Authors, Poets and Artists
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Author of numerous western and adventure novels, including "Riders of the Purple Sage," and "West of the Pecos." Check of the Pacific-Southwest Trust & Savings Bank for $347.66 payable to Fellows & Stewart. Dated May 3, 1928, the entire check is filled out and signed by Grey in purple ink. Strong signature. $225.00
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French statesman and historian. Author of numerous multi-volume works of history. His father was executed during the reign of terror 1794, but Guizot survived to become Professor of Modern History at the Sorbonne during the Napoleonic era 1810. Briefly Minister to Great Britain 1840, before returning later that year to serve as Foreign Minister and de facto Prime Minister. Letter written and signed by Guizot, in French, on blue stationery. Dated April 22, 1863, and signed "Guizot." Untranslated. $65.00
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4. FRÉDÉRIC-AUGUSTE BARTHOLDI (1834-1904)
French sculptor best known for his colossal Statue of Liberty ("Liberty Enlightening the World") presented to the United States by the French people in 1885. Manuscript letter, entirely in Bartholdi's own hand, dated March 9, 1883, to a correspondent only identified as "Dear Friend." Bartholdi expresses his gladness at hearing that his friend will be visiting Paris soon, and mentions a "Mr. Holland," whom Bartholdi has sent "a card of introduction to the workshop with the best recommendation." This was an important year for Bartholdi, as the financing of his famous famous Statue of Liberty had finally been completed the previous year, and construction would be completed the year following. A rare letter, in English, from a significant sculptor most likely writing to one of his American patrons who was traveling to see the work-in-progress of his monumental statue. $550.00
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8. PEARL S. BUCK (1894-1973)
Sinologist and Pulitzer Prize-winning American author. She was the first American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. A daughter of missionaries, she spent much of her life in China and with such fondness that the Chinese often claim her as a Chinese writer. Very nice copy, with dustjacket, of China As I See It (The John Day Company: New York, 1970). Part of a limited edition run of 3,000, and signed "Pearl S Buck." $250.00
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10. MARC CHAGALL (1887-1985)
Russian-born French painter. One of the great painters of the 20th century, and a key figure in post-Impressionist modern art. Beautiful 8 inch by 9 inch black and white image of a smiling Chagall in his studio, removed from a book. A great piece-perfect for framing, signed in artist's crayon "Marc Chagall." $950.00
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11. MARC CHAGALL (1887-1985)
Russian-born French painter. One of the great painters of the 20th century, and a key figure in post-Impressionist modern art. Postcard-sized print of the Chagall painting "Moses Receiving the Tablets of the Law" removed from a small book. Signed in crayon "Marc Chagall." A beautiful piece that would be ideal for framing. $295.00
English novelist who started his career more as a popular entertainer rather than a serious author. His masterful prose won praise by critics and his ability to create memorable characters put him in the ranks of the "must read" authors. His works have never been out of print and the mention of his last name is immediately recognizable by readers of almost any age.
This museum quality frame measures 26" x 15" and houses two smaller frames. On the left, an envelope written and signed by Charles Dickens. Affixed in the top right corner is a cancelled, Penny Black stamp. Introduced in 1840, the Penny Black was the United Kingdom's first self adhesive stamp. On the right, a portrait of Charles Dickens.
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13. CHARLES DICKENS (1812-1870)
Renowned British novelist, author of A Tale of Two Cities and A Christmas Carol, among others. Address panel from an envelope, addressed entirely in Dickens' hand. Signed on the front in the lower left, "Charles Dickens." SOLD!
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15. ANNA ELIZABETH DICKINSON (1842-1932)
Writer, powerful and popular lecturer, anti-slavery activist and defender of the Union. Beautiful and charming two-page letter from Dickinson to her "dear, dear husband," written the day after Christmas (no year given). She discusses the presents they received from friends, expresses concern for his well being and comfort, and sends her prayers. Entirely in Dickinson's hand and signed "Anna." SOLD
Popular American artist and illustrator, creator of the famous "Gibson Girl." Letter written by Gibson, dated 1939, responding to an inquiry by pointing out that a certain Gibson picture is "published in books and you may find them in some second-hand book stores." Signed "Ch. Gibson." $185.00
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19. ZANE GREY (1872-1939)
Author of numerous western and adventure novels, including "Riders of the Purple Sage," and "West of the Pecos." Personalized check of the Altadena National Bank dated September 9, 1931, for $50.00 payable to the Havemann Hardware Company. Written and signed by Grey. $175.00
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20. ZANE GREY (1872-1939)
Author of numerous western and adventure novels, including "Riders of the Purple Sage," and "West of the Pecos." 11-page typewritten contract, with brown paper cover, between Grey and the Fox Film Corporation giving Fox the rights to one of Grey's stories, originally published in Lady's Home Journal in 1930. The contract is dated April 2, 1932, and is signed by Zane Grey in purple ink. $950.00
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21. ZANE GREY (1872-1939)
Author of numerous western and adventure novels, including "Riders of the Purple Sage," and "West of the Pecos." Great copy of Grey's novel Thunder Mountain, (Grosset & Dunlap, Publishers: New York, 1935). Probably a sort of special edition, as the flyleaf bears the printed inscription "Your trail and mine cross in mutual love of the Great West. Sincerely" and signed "Zane Grey." $265.00
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Author, grand-nephew of Nathan Hale, Unitarian Clergyman, Chaplain of the US Senate 1903-1909. He wrote “The Man Without a Country,” one of the best-loved American short stories. Somewhat cryptic letter concerning “a young gentleman in the western part of this state” and “the matter of which you speak.” Dated November 4, 1889, and written entirely in Hale’s hand on his personal stationery. Signed “Edw. E. Hale.” $335.00
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Award-winning theatrical writer and producer, collaborated with Richard Rogers on such legendary musicals as The King and I, and South Pacific. Typed note on Hammerstein’s personal stationery dated December 7, 1949, addressed to Nobel Prize-winning author and neighbor PEARL S. BUCK (1892-1973), concerning a honorary dinner. Signed "Oscar Hammerstein." $425.00 SOLD
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Scottish novelist, historian, and poet. Author of Ivanoe, Rob Roy, and the Waverly Series, among others. Letter written and signed by Scott to "My Dear Croker," dated September 3, no year given, sending greetings, and briefly quoting from Othello. Signed "Walter Scott." $510.00 SOLD
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32. SIR WALTER SCOTT (1771-1832)
Scottish novelist, historian, and poet. Author of Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, and the Waverly series, among others. Manuscript check for £28 dated 1830, entirely in Scott's hand and signed "Walter Scott." $475.00
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British Poet-Laureate, his works include “Idylls of the King,” and the drama “Becket.” He is considered by many to be the representative poet of the Victorian era. Manuscript bank draft drawn on Olding, Osborne & Co., for five pounds payable to Mr. Henry Rashleigh. The check is dated October 25, 1861, has a one-penny revenue stamp affixed, and is signed “Tennyson.” $475.00
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American painter, student of Benjamin West, President of the American Academy of Fine Arts. Trumbull served early in the war as General Washington’s aide-de-camp. Partially-printed check drawn on the Bank of New York for $30.00, payable to "Myself." Dated October 6, 1821, filled out and signed by Trumbull. $295.00
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36. JOHN TRUMBULL (1756-1843)
American painter, student of Benjamin West, President of the American Academy of Fine Arts. Trumbull served early in the war as General Washington’s aide-de-camp. Brief letter written and signed by Trumbull, dated April 20, 1821, to N(icholas) Fish, Continental Army officer and civic leader, concerning a subscription invoice. Slightly trimmed on the left side, not affecting the writing. Bold signature, "Jno. Trumbull." $525.00
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Veteran of the Mexican War, Major General during the Civil War. Best known as the author of "Ben Hur." Interesting letter written and signed by Wallace to J. B. Lippincott Co. forwarding some postage stamps as payment for a copy of "The Moorish Empire" by Scott. Dated May 27, 1904, the year before his death. Old tape repair to one separated seam, not affecting signature, otherwise good condition. A scarce piece, entirely in Wallace's own hand. $390.00
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American expatriate painter, he lived in London from 1763 until his death in 1820. He succeeded his good friend Sir Joshua Reynolds as President of the Royal Academy. He was noted for his paintings "Death of Wolfe," "Penn's Treaty with the Indians," and numerous royal portraits. Manuscript letter written and signed by West to United States Minister Rufus King, dated August 7, 1802. West was planning an excursion to Paris with his youngest son to view the French National Gallery of Art, and wanted King to help with a letter of introduction to the American Minister at Paris, and with obtaining the necessary passports. West was taking advantage of the brief cessation of hostilities between France and Great Britain produced by the Treaty of Amiens and the following May the fragile peace collapsed, and war was renewed until Napoleon was driven from power more than a decade later! A great letter, with one of the greatest painters of his time arranging an artistic expedition to the art capital of Europe through a tiny window of opportunity in the otherwise turbulent era of the Napoleonic Wars. $2900.00
Prolific American writer, historian and philosopher, best known for The Story of Civilization. Letter written and signed by Durant thanking a fan for a previous letter and mentions his upcoming book titled, Caesar and Christ which would be published in 1944. Signed "Will Durant." $155.00
Thornton Wilder (1897-1975) was an American playwright and novelist who received three Pulitzer Prizes for his novel The Bridge of San Luis Rey and two of his plays, Our Town and The Skin of Our Teeth. This letter, dated December 13, 1963, is written entirely in Thornton Wilder's hand to Stanley Woodward of Rockport, Massachusetts. Wilder thanks Woodward for a previous letter and remarks that he wishes he could "see Rockport again and talk over all times." He talks about living in the Arizona desert for the past year and a half and mentions an upcoming trip he plans to take on January 4 to "continue my semi-hermit's life abroad." He wishes "A Happy Christmas Season" in bold pencil to Woodward and signs it "ever cordially, Thornton." A very personal note. $325.00
Founder of French impressionist painting, and the most consistent and prolific practitioner of the movement's philosphy of expressing one's perceptions before nature, especially as applied to open air, landscape painting. He exhibited in most of the Impressionist exhibitions, beginning in 1874, where the title of one of his paintings, Impression, Sunrise led to the naming of the Impressionist movement.
Museum quality frame measuring 19" x 18", houses an 8.25" x 6" print of Monet's Sailboats: Regatta at Argenteuil and a 3.5" x 4.75 print of a portrait of Monet as painted by Renoir. Of particular significance is a 5.25" x 3.25" framed signature of Monet. Written in artist's crayon are the words "mille choses a vous, Claude Monet." $1800.00
Russian-French artist associated with several major artistic styles and is considered one of the most successful artists of the 20th century. He was an early modernist and created works in virtually every artistic medium, including painting, book illustrations, stained glass, stage sets, ceramic, tapestries and fine art prints. Receiving many prizes and much recognition for his work, Chagall is one of the very few artists who has had his work exhibited at the Louvre during his lifetime.
The circus and its performers provided Chagall with great inspiration. In this typewritten note, dated 1967, Chagall discusses his thoughts on circus performers saying, "I have always thought of clowns, acrobats and actors as tragically human beings who, for me, are like characters in certain religious paintings." He delves further into the comparison saying "Even today, when I paint a crucifixion or some other religious scene, I experience almost the same emotions I used to feel painting circus people. And yet, there is nothing literary in these paintings, and it is very hard to explain why I find a psycho-plastic resemblance between the two kinds of work."
This highly introspective look into the artist's mind is boldly signed in artist's crayon, "Marc Chagall." $895.00
The circus and its performers provided Chagall with great inspiration. In this typewritten note, dated 1967, Chagall discusses his thoughts on circus performers saying, "I have always thought of clowns, acrobats and actors as tragically human beings who, for me, are like characters in certain religious paintings." He delves further into the comparison saying "Even today, when I paint a crucifixion or some other religious scene, I experience almost the same emotions I used to feel painting circus people. And yet, there is nothing literary in these paintings, and it is very hard to explain why I find a psycho-plastic resemblance between the two kinds of work."
This highly introspective look into the artist's mind is boldly signed in artist's crayon, "Marc Chagall." $895.00
Anoted American sculptor, writer and educator who was considered by many to be one of the most important sculptors of the early 20th Century.
Taft would win numerous awards at national and international expositions, including the Columbian Exposition in 1893, the Pan-American Exposition in 1901, the Louisiana Purchase Exposition in 1904, and the Panama-Pacific Exposition in 1915. His first important commission was for the Horticultural Building at the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893, when he designed two sculptural groups at the entrance entitled "The Sleep of the Flowers" and "The Awakening of the Flowers." His next major works included "The Solitude of the Soul," which earned him a gold medal at the 1904 Exposition, the "Fountain of the Great Lakes," and the sculptural group, "The Blind." This last sculpture can be seen in a 1988 casting in the Krannert Art Museum on the University of Illinois campus.
Taft would win numerous awards at national and international expositions, including the Columbian Exposition in 1893, the Pan-American Exposition in 1901, the Louisiana Purchase Exposition in 1904, and the Panama-Pacific Exposition in 1915. His first important commission was for the Horticultural Building at the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893, when he designed two sculptural groups at the entrance entitled "The Sleep of the Flowers" and "The Awakening of the Flowers." His next major works included "The Solitude of the Soul," which earned him a gold medal at the 1904 Exposition, the "Fountain of the Great Lakes," and the sculptural group, "The Blind." This last sculpture can be seen in a 1988 casting in the Krannert Art Museum on the University of Illinois campus.
Taft later focused on monumental, heroic sculptures, including a statue of the prominent native American Black Hawk, which was fifty feet in height and placed on a promontory overlooking the Rock River near Oregon, Illinois. One of his most noted sculptures was the 100 foot long "Fountain of Time" at the University of Chicago. Although many of his works are in Illinois, he also had many commissions for statues, sculptures, and fountains throughout the United States, including Louisiana, Colorado, Washington, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, and Oklahoma.
This typed letter dated June 8, 1934 is on the official stationary of Chicago's Midway Studios, Taft's art studio. Addressed to Miss Lorraine Marianelli, also of Chicago, the letter informs Miss Marianelli of Taft's plans for the weeks following June 8. He tells her "it will be a pleasure to meet her and her friends and requests that he telephone ahead by calling him at "Hyde Park 7058." The letter is signed "Lorado Taft." $140.00
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