Two items: a one page TLS, 6 x 8.25, on his personal letterhead, dated November 8, 1949. Rockwell writes, in part: “Your Television Contest idea sounds very flattering, and I have nothing against it. The only thing is, Gene Byrnes, the cartoonist, has been lining up some terrific Television package job that he wishes me on. I do not know if this would interfere with your idea or not. Then, another thing, would the Saturday Evening Post like the idea.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope; and an unrelated color 8 x 10 print of one of Rockwell’s work, signed and inscribed in black felt tip, “My very best to Ted DuBay, sincerely, Norman Rockwell.” In fine condition, with a mild shade of toning to letter.
Gene Byrnes, to whom Rockwell refers, was a former bug spray salesman who began copying cartoons during his recuperation from a broken leg. After completing a cartooning correspondence course, he went on to create the popular syndicated Reg’lar Fellers series which would ultimately make him a very rich man. The letter’s recipient, John Stuart Cloud, was a Minneapolis-born photographer who hosted a 1950s TV show on photography. His photographs were used by Rockwell as the basis of some of Rockwell’s well-known paintings for the Saturday Evening Post. RRAuction COA.
