Carl Van Vechtecn Archive of 3 TLS and 2 Artistic Photographs

A collection of three typed letters signed and two photographs by author and photographer Carl Van Vechten. The letters, all typed on his personal letterhead, concern a question Vechten had about M. P. Sheil's being categorized as a Negro in a recent catalog. Dated November 29, 1940 to August 15, 1947 and addressed to members of staff at the University Blace Book Shop. The two photographs were taken by Van Vechten in 1935 and 1953, depicting various artworks. All of the letters have flattened mail folds, with some separations and paper loss which does not affect any of the text. Varying degrees of toning and soiling. Chipping at letter edges. Minor soiling to the backs of the photos. Boldly signed by Van Vechten.

Includes:
1. Photo, 5.5" x 8.25". A drawing by Francis Rose, and Egyptian head, and a Mexican box. Taken March 26, 1953. Stamped on verso.
2. Photo, 7.25" x 9.75". Michael Angelo's David in the Piazza della Signoria, Florence. Taken June 27, 1935. Stamped on verso.
3. Typed Letter Signed, 1p, measuring 7.25" x 6.5", New York, dated November 29, 1940. Signed "Carl Van Vechten" and addressed to the University Blace Book Shop. In part: "…In your current catalogue No 20, The Negro Part III, you list M P Shiel as a Negro. I am curious to know where you go this information…"
4. Typed Letter Signed, 1p, measuring 7.25" x 10.5", New York, dated December 6, 1940. Signed "Carl Van Vechten" and addressed to Mr. Goldwater. In part: "…I asked the question because I was surprised. I have most of Shiel's books and even know him personally, but I had never heard this before, tho' I was aware he came from the West Indies…"
5. Typed Letter Signed, 1p, measuring 9" x 11.25", New York, dated August 15, 1947. Signed "Carl Van Vechten" and addressed to Mr. Cole. In part: "…Sorry to have been so long, but I wanted to read the book again. If you don't like this blurb, say so, and I'll write another. This book MUST be a success…"

Carl Van Vechten (1880-1964) was an American writer and artistic photographer. He became a patron of the Harlem Renaissance, having gained fame as a writer, and notoriety as well, for his 1926 novel "Nigger Heaven". In his later years, he took up photography and took many portraits of notable figures such as Langston Hughes, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and more.

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.

WE PROVIDE IN-HOUSE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE!