^#602 ^Lot 630 Henri Matisse

Eminent French artist (1869–1954), most closely associated with the Fauvist movement, best known for his colorful paintings, fluid drawings, and bold, distinctive cut-paper collages. ALS in French, one page, 5.25 x 8, August 8, 1946. Letter addressed to “Cher Docteur.” in full (translated): “To profit from an air ticket left by a friend my son has had to depart very quickly to Paris without having paid your fees. I am therefore to do it for him. I send you this morning the value of your fees, 14.000, the total amount with his thanks. My health is getting better, I am getting stronger every day. Please accept, Dear Doctor, my grateful feelings.” The line crossed out by Matisse reads, “please find enclosed a check for fourteen thousand.” Small repaired edge tear, rusty paperclip mark next to signature, and a few light creases, otherwise fine condition. At the time of this letter, Matisse was finishing his famous work, L’Asie, one of his definitive works of the female form.