George Catlin, Artist, ALS from his Father About the Painter's Future

[CATLIN, George]. CATLIN, Putnam. Autograph Letter Signed, “Putnam Catlin”, 2pp, 7.5” x 12.5”, Hop Bottom, May 3, 1815. Integral address leaf with remnants of an orange wax seal. Minor paper loss at some intersecting folds; scattered light foxing; toning; else, near fine condition.

George Catlin (1796-1872), the great painter of the Plains Indians, was raised in rural Pennsylvania by a Revolutionary War veteran named Putnam Catlin (1764-1842). George initially pursued a law career in nearby Wilkes-Barre, under the mentorship of newspaper publisher Steuben Butler (1789-1881).

This letter from Putnam Catlin to Butler is largely dedicated to young George’s prospects, and reads, in part, “I have the pleasure of reading your letter by the last mail in the behalf of Geo. The friendship you express for him, while it evinces the goodness of your heart, will be considered by me as a proof of his merit while under your immediate notice. I confess, Sir, that I am at this time much perplexed in deciding how to manage as to the education of George…my funds are so limited that I cannot do as I wish.”

Catlin continues, “I am obliged to consider myself as a mere farmer, republican farmer, Beechwood farmer, without a hired man in this hurrying season of the year. How then am I to spare George…I admit that your reasoning is just in regard to George but I know not how to spare him at this time. I shall not be able to give him a public education. If he shall persist in the choice of law, he will have to glean for himself an education in some law office.”

Accompanied by a 16pp “Memorial of R. R. Gurley”, Washington: Tippen & Streeper, printers, 1848, to the Senate and House of Representatives of the 30th Congress, praying that they purchase George Catlin’s “extensive and unique collection of Indian portraits, costumes, costumes, weapons, &c…which cost Catlin eight years of his life, and an expenditure of more than 20,000 dollars…” Testimonials as to the historical value of Catlin’s artwork, and to his character itself, fill the pages of this publication.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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