Famed French art dealer (1831–1922) who was one of the first to provide financial support and solo exhibitions to artists, including Degas, Renoir, Monet, and Pissarro. ALS in French, signed “Durand-Ruel,” two pages, lightly-lined on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 8.25, personal letterhead, September 27, 1899. Superb letter to “Cher Monsieur Monet,” in full (translated): “When will you send me what may now be ready amongst the paintings that we have recently chosen? I am quite anxious to receive them. I forgot to mention what my son had told you about the doors of our living room on Rue de Rome. It would be above six doors. You have said to Georges that you might accept to do them at your pace, and with the time needed to complete this decoration. I will be delighted if you accepted to do this work. When you go back to London, don’t forget that I still claim the favor of being first to see the studies that you will do there. Please send my best compliments to Madame Monet.” In fine condition.
Nearly three decades after Paul Durand-Ruel began shaping the career of a struggling Monet—buying his first series of paintings in 1871 for 300 francs each, exhibiting his work throughout Europe, and crossing the Atlantic to introduce Impressionism to America—their professional relationship continued, though slightly strained by the intense newfound interest in their movement. By 1899, competitive dealers had begun to insert themselves into the lives and careers of Durand-Ruel’s now legendary group of artists, Monet included. The artist made three trips to London beginning in the fall of 1899, during which he created striking new views of the city, certainly the “studies” that Durand-Ruel mentions. Politely asserting his presumed right to be the first to see them, this is a fascinating glimpse into their longtime working relationship. Within the next few years, Monet would in fact move on to other dealers, making this letter even more poignant. One of the most influential art dealers of all time, letters between Durand-Ruel and his artists are quite rare—this is the first we have offered. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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