Renowned American artist (1889–1975) whose distinctive “regionalist” style made him one of the most influential figures in American art during the 1930s and 1940s. His large-scale murals, often peopled by lanky, exaggerated human figures, became classic visual emblems of both idyllic rural culture and bustling urbanism in Depression-era America. ALS, one page both sides, 7.25 x 10.5, May 28, 1962. Benton writes to William E. Steadman at the University Art Gallery in Tucson, Arizona. In part: “The shipment for the Benton retrospective leaves here this morning. Enclosed is a listing of the articles. Also a listing of what you have already received…. I will be glad to answer any questions put to me by you or your assistants with regard to cataloguing or with regard to any pertinent factors that may come up…. Remembering the size of your galleries I added 4 easel painting[s] to the ten I promised. I could add four more from my collection at Martha’s Vin[e]yard if necessary to fill out your spaces. I hope you will follow the hanging directions for the 1919–26 Historical Sets. Each set makes one mural unit if hung in the proper sequence. These pictures have been hanging in the theatre of the University of Kansas City for about 15 years and need cleaning and in some cases re-lining but all in all they are in pretty good shape. I may be able to add … a bronze replica of the Truman Mural sculpture if you want it. This is presently in process….” Mild handling wear and faint show-through of ink, otherwise fine condition. Outstanding art-related content from this most prominent of Depression-era American artists! RRAuction COA.
