Significant American painter (1910–1962) who became best known for his large-scale, black-and-white, calligraphy-inspired canvases. Interesting lot of documents related to Kline and his work, circa 1940s–1960s. Included: vintage matte-finish 5 x 7 photo of the young Kline, signed in black fountain pen and dated 1944; handmade Chrismas card featuring a hand-colored woodblock print of a house at night, the print measuring approximately 4 x 3.75 and signed in pencil at lower right, “Franz Kline 44,” the card with the handwritten ink sentiment, apparently in Elizabeth Kline’s hand, “Merry Christmas Greetings and a Happy New Year, Elizabeth & Franz Kline”; two identical handmade Christmas cards designed by Kline for “the Backmans,” evidently rejected proofs, 9.25 x 6, the interior featuring a woodcut-printed Christmas sentiment in green, the exterior featuring a hand-colored woodblock print of a nighttime scene, one example signed “FK 44.” Also included are several documents relating to the Backmans’ purchase and ownership of various Kline works, including letters from galleries, receipts, and photos. In fine condition, with toning and scattered soiling to Christmas cards (one example wrinkled and torn). R&R COA.
