Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
(800) 937-3880
SELL

Lot #532
John Ruskin Autograph Letter Signed

Ruskin prepares his bid: "A real Holbein drawing is worth anything"

This lot has closed

Estimate: $400+
Sell a Similar Item?
Share:  

Description

Ruskin prepares his bid: "A real Holbein drawing is worth anything"

Influential English art critic and writer (1819-1900) remembered as a champion of the work of J.M.W. Turner. ALS signed “J. Ruskin,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.25 x 7, Brantwood letterhead, April 20, 1881. Handwritten letter regarding an auction of Hans Holbein paintings, in part: "A myriad thanks for the copy of letter on the most curious piece of autobiography I ever saw or heard of…If Mr. Reid is going to bid for those Holbeins, I will not bid against him—but if not, I will give you carte blanche for them, to be used at your paternal discretion—in respect of my credit as a more or less prudent buyer for the Museum. But a real Holbein drawing is worth anything. So your discretion must be the worse part of your valour, please." In fine condition, with a rusty circular paperclip impression to the top and a small puncture at center.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts Featuring Presidents
  • Dates: #658 - Ended February 08, 2023





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for $35.00

*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.