Widely admired French artist (1841–1919) who was one of the most visible and influential figures of the impressionist movement. ALS in French, signed “Renoir,” one page, 4.5 x 6.25, October 6, 1918. The artist writes to his friend, Maurice Gaugnat, an art collector who had, by this date, already amassed a huge number of Renoir's paintings. Renoir reveals that his house "is now full, after four months of solitude and boredom." He also notes that Pierre has recently undergone a painful operation, and asks his corespondent to select another date to visit, as he is unable to offer him lodging at the present time. In fine condition, with a central horizontal fold, and a uniform shade of light toning. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope.
As his life drew to a close, the prolific artist returned to expressionism creating numerous painting in his “solitude and boredom.” Among them were the 1918 works “Bathers”— strangely depicted nude figures set against a tumultuous background—and the much more visually pleasing “Girl with a Mandolin”—two scenes that were probably finished in the same house where this letter was written. This correspondence provides an exquisite reference to a period late in Renoir’s life when his artistic vision, though still strong, took a decidedly bizarre turn into the absurd. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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