[Visual Arts] Masson, André. (1896–1987) [Curtis, Tony. (1925–2010)]. Letters to Tony Curtis. An interesting group of three letters from the influential French surrealist artist, addressed to the actor Tony Curtis who, throughout his life, enjoyed painting, and from the early 1980s, painted as a second career. He passionately collected artwork and corresponded with many important artists of the 20th Century, including Masson. The group includes three retained and unsigned copies of typed letters from Curtis to Masson, and three handwritten and signed letters from Masson to Curtis, dated 1963 and 1964. All in fine condition, moderately toned, envelopes stapled to upper left corners. In chronological order, as follows:



1 p. TL. July 29, 1963. "Dear Mons. Masson: We don't know each other personally, but I am a great admirer of yours. I have a painting of yours called 'Autumn,' which is quite beautiful. A few days ago, I was speaking with a friend of mine who also thinks very highly of your work, an art dealer by the name of Richard Feigen, who told me you were not feeling too well and this is just a little note expressing my wishes for a complete and gentle recovery."



2 pp. ALS. 5 August, 1963. With the original transmissal envelope, signed on the verso. Translated from the French: "Dear Sir, I am moved by the thought of your wishes for my health. Your kind letter truly touched me. I think to thank Mr. Feigen that you have my works in your collection, it makes me happy. I am doing better: I was only sick for a short time (this happens to everyone, I think), due to excessive efforts: sets for theater, engravings for books, and of course, paintings. Yes, a bit of --- and nothing more. I don't think I'll see you this summer in Provence, but perhaps in the Fall, or later, in Paris. I know you well from the screen, I am very sure that I've never missed one of your films! But I'd love to meet you in my studio. Here is my new address in Paris: 26 Rue de Sevigne (3e) - Until then, believe Sir, in my sympathy and admiration for your art. Andre Masson."



1 p. TL. August 8, 1963. "Dear Mons. Masson: I just got a brand-new instant camera -- that is, you take a picture and one minute later you have the photograph in color. One of the first pictures I tried to take was of myself and your painting which I treasure. Enclosed is that photograph. The color is not quite true, but it gives you an idea of what it looks like on the wall of my home. Again, I am very proud of it - and, again, my felicitations."



2 pp. ALS.1 January, 1964. With the original transmissal envelope, signed on the verso. Translated from the French: "Dear Sir and friend, your New Year's wishes gave me great pleasure, as well as to get the good news. I will address the --- for you and your woman. I do not know California; only New England and New York. I still hope that in your next trip to Paris, you will come find me in my new apartment: 26 Rue de Sevigne - Paris 4e. I am doing better, I work, and like you, I love my profession. I await your next film with great interest. I have a grandson, two years old, I am enchanted! And I am happy to think that you also await a happy happening! Most cordially, your Andre Masson."



1 p. TL. November 3, 1964. "Please Andre - be kind enough to autograph this photograph for me."



1 p. ANS. 12 November, 1964. "Affectionate thoughts for you dear Tony and for your charming wife. Andre."