Autograph Letter Signed regarding a portrait of his wife by Gándara

ALS from the Italian poet, novelist, and dramatist to an unspecified individual regarding a portrait by the French painter.  Undated, ca. 1885;  1 pp. on folded paper in striking purple ink.  D'Annunzio writes, in full (translated from the French): "Sir, / I am writing to ask that my portrait be sent to the studio, because M. de la Gándara has seen it—he can make corrections to it this afternoon. / Sincerely, / M. D'Annunzio."  Light crease to lower half, else in fine condition.  4.5 x 7 inches (11.4 x 17.8 cm.).

Painter, pastellist, and draughtsman Antonio de La Gándara was one of the favorite portraitists among elites in late-19th century Paris.  In the mid-1880s he painted a large-scale portrait of Maria Hardouin D'Annunzio, likely as a commission from her new husband, Gabriele D'Annunzio.  Married in July of 1883, the couple would go on to have three sons.  Though they remained legally married and on good terms for the rest of his life, they became effectively separated in 1890. (19690)

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Theater

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Autograph Letter

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