TLS, one page, 8.5 x 10.25, personal letterhead, November 29, 1954. Letter to C. E. Larson at the Star Granite Works. In full: “My name’s Norman Rockwell—the fellow who paints. Mr. Wright, at the Rock of Ages home office, has just informed me of your purchase order for the monument featuring the symbolism of the Jonquil.
Since this is the same monument I recently worked on, I’m naturally flattered to hear the news of your order.
You’ve probably guessed, if you’ve noticed any of my work, that my great joy comes in painting America and its people as you and I see them. I believe, as you do, that the traditional cemetery and family monument – and the human scenes enacted at this spot – are a reverent bit of Americana. Perhaps this explains why I enjoyed so much my work with the people at Rock of Ages on this monument, and on the advertisement that will carry the scene I have painted, into the homes of millions of our fellow Americans.
I send you an artist’s appreciation of the craftsmanship I find in Rock of Ages and wish you success through the service you render as a Rock of Ages Authorized Dealer.”
In very good condition, with top edge possibly trimmed slightly, light toning to edges, some scattered light soiling along top edge, and a small crease to lower left corner tip.
As Rockwell is best known for his depiction of Americana, it is fitting that this letter bears a direct reference to that subject. Here, the artist speaks of the pleasure derived from re-creating scenes of everyday life as he sees them—including mourning one’s passing, “The traditional cemetery and family monument – and the human scenes enacted at this spot – are a reverent bit of Americana,” he observes. The Rock of Ages print ads Rockwell created capture this sentiment, with a loved one’s final resting place portrayed more of a celebration of life. As a commercial artist, Rockwell produced some 800 advertisements for more than 150 companies. With numerous calendars, illustrations, logos, and mastheads already to his credit, among his last published ads were for the headstone manufacturer referenced in his correspondence. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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