Illustrator and painter who developed the popular image of the Christy Girl. ALS signed “Howard,” two pages, 8 x 10, personal letterhead, September 5, 1935. Letter to Bascom Timmons of the National Press Club. In full: “I’ve just written Mr. Jones to thank him — and last week I sent a sketch by Air Mail to Mr. Roy Miller of the poster idea. So now the only thing to do — is to wait for an answer. Mr. Jones wanted to make a contract with amount of each painting, so I make this suggestion for your approval.
Portrait Sam Houston 6500.00
San Jacinto Battle 10500.00
Surrender of Santa Anna 10500.00
$27500.00
This seems to me a fair distribution, and as soon as we can get the contract ready I’m ready to go ahead for I’m sure Mr. Jones will get what he wants. I have absolute confidence in him–and in you–and in myself to do the work. I have it all planned out now–and all I need is to go to Texas for material and historical data, so that there is nothing overlooked–with my very best to you Mr. Timmons and Timmie.” In fine condition, with a couple brushes to a couple letters of text, not affecting legibility. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope addressed in Christy’s hand.
Between 1905 and the beginning of World War I, Christy was one of the most popular artists in America, creating the iconic ‘Christy Girl’ and five years after this letter was sent, a famed representation of the signing of the US Constitution. The Great Depression put a damper on his life but did not diminish his work load—whether for pleasure or for pay. As evidenced here, the creation of three works commemorating the Alamo would be quite profitable for the artist—especially during the economically depressed period. RRAuction COA.
