Peruvian-born American illustrator (1896–1982) best remembered for his colorful, sensuous renderings of pinup-style nudes. Excellent TLS signed “Alberto,” two pages, 7.25 x 10.5, illustrated “The Varga Girl” letterhead, August 25, 1947. Vargas writes to Mr. Ewins. In part: “We are quite gratified that the copyright lawyers seem to be of the same opinion as we, namely, that this is only a decoy-move by that lowly individual in order to harass me in my work…. As for the copyright of pics., I remember I discussed this with you when the rat put out 14 or 15 Varga-Girls … without my signature, this being the basis for the second suit we slapped on Esq[uire magazine]. Regardless of the contract, he was factually deceiving the public into buying Esq. girls as Vargas. I then said I could print the same pics, with my signature and show him up … but you persuaded me the law in reference to art is very much in the nebulous state in this country…. As for the playing cards, I am of same opinion regarding them as I am of the rest of the other so-called controversial pictures. Mine are the best suit of cards every to come out of my drawing board and they are deligneated [sic] in chiffon draperies, a front view and a back view … the motif being the same as the ones made for Esq. but possesses of a quite different ‘caché,’ that’s all…. By the end of the month I will have half the 49 cal[endar] finished and let me tell you, it is really something gorgeous, even Mister S. won’t have any nails left when he sees it…. I am working like a beaver, without sacrificing quality, in order to have it ready for the 10 of next month….” Faint scattered toning to first page, and mild handling wear, otherwise fine condition. Seldom seen in letters of this length and interest! R&R COA.
