FINI (Leonor) (1908–1996). French surrealist painter, lithog - Lot 161

FINI (Leonor) (1908–1996). French surrealist painter, lithographer, theater set designer, and writer of Italian origin. Autograph letter signed “Leonor” to Pierre Besse. Nonza (Corsica), July 6, 1961. 6 pages, quarto size, with a stamped and postmarked envelope. A LONG AND VEHEMENT LETTER REFERRING TO A LEGAL DISPUTE, A FALL IN HER HOME, AND THE SALE OF A WATERCOLOR FOR 100,000 FRANCS. In this particularly impassioned letter, Leonor Fini expresses to her correspondent her deep concern following an accident that occurred in her home: an American woman reportedly fell down the stairs and injured her wrist. Fearing that the woman might file a lawsuit against her, the artist expresses outrage over the circumstances of the accident and the liability that might be attributed to her: “Now I’m really worried about another issue involving the house. Because of that American pig who, back in March, fell just before going down the stairs and broke her wrist. ” She explains that the injured woman’s lawyer is demanding information about her insurance and is worried about the amount of damages she might be required to pay, particularly due to possible long-term effects on the hand. Leonor Fini strongly disputes her liability, citing the layout of the staircase and the circumstances of the fall. She also mentions attorney Maurice Garçon, from whom she hopes to receive support: “I hope Garçon will reassure me; otherwise, I’ll be ruined—everything I earn—often with great difficulty—will be swallowed up by lawyers’ fees, court costs, and payment to that vile creature.” The letter also contains an interesting passage regarding her artistic activity and the market for her works. She reports that a young American bought a watercolor from her for 100,000 francs, while wondering about the possible consequences of this sale in the context of her legal dispute: “The problem is that a young American who came with that sow bought the watercolor for 100,000 francs, but that doesn’t count as a ‘?’ for me—you can sell things from your own home—even a piece of furniture, an object, etc. without it being considered ‘a store.’” She also mentions the Rive Droite gallery, which she had contacted by phone, and urges Pierre Besse to consult with his lawyer and discuss the matter with Stanislao. A particularly expressive correspondence, revealing Leonor Fini’s passionate and anxious temperament, offering insight into her private life, her financial concerns, her relationships with her legal advisors, and the terms of sale for her works in the early 1960s. Envelope preserved, with a stamp and postmarks from Nonza dated July 6, 1961. Tears and missing sections where the envelope was opened. Letter showing creases from handling.

Estimation:€350

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