A talented fellow student of John Lennon’s at the Liverpool College of Art, Stuart Sutcliffe (1940–1962) played the bass in the first incarnation of the Beatles. He chose his passion for painting above being a Beatle and left the group to devote himself to his art career; not long after, he died of a cerebral hemorrhage at the age of twenty-one. ALS signed “Your son (your young man) Stuart xxxx,” two pages both sides, 8.25 x 11.75, July 8. Letter to his mother, with Sutcliffe switching from blue to black ink during the process of writing, in full: “All’s well I hope. Have I forgotten to tell you that I’m here for a year, sorry. I know I’m thin but I hope to be fatter soon. Anyway could you please send me my blue suit and old grey shoes (for working in). Have a look through the pockets and take all little labels out and things. I got your letter today, and have written to Allan William telling him I want an exhibition in Sept. of my new pictures. I will be coming home then for a couple of weeks holiday. Hope you’re not too sad that you won’t be seeing us for so long time. But you have your compensation (I hope). I had a lovely letter from my father about a week ago, and have since replied to his American Address. I’ll write to him again soon. Now I’m having a short break before starting painting again. I shall also find a job for a few weeks to strengthen funds etc. I’m glad our letters are so well received, I hope things are swinging at home (not too literally) the television good and all that…perhaps Joyce and Pauline will get around to writing 1 day. Thanks for the cutting. All is beautiful here as always, and I’m settling down comfortably. I’m still nervous and excited this is why I can’t settle to write properly to you. I hope you forgive me, but lots of love to all and more to you than the others.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Sutcliffe’s hand to “Mrs. M. C. Sutcliffe.” Envelope is also signed on the reverse by Sutcliffe’s girlfriend, Astrid Kirchherr,”Kiss from your Astrid.” In fine condition, with two horizontal folds, several small areas of brushing and ink smudges, not affecting legibility, and a few small creases. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Sutcliffe’s estate. Pre-certified Roger Epperson/REAL and RR Auction COA.
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