Highly regarded French painter (1830–1903), one of the leading figures of the impressionist movement, best known for his distinctive pointillist style. ALS in French, signed “C. Pissarro,” two pages on adjoining sheets, 4.25 x 7, May 6, 1883. Letter to Impressionist dealer and patron [Paul] Durand-Ruel, asking him to cover his debt to his framer. In full (translated): “More annoyances. My framer Cluzel is pressing me for money. I told him that this month it would not be easy, however I am letting you know in case you might send him a word. He seems very hard-pressed. Here then is my budget, the addition this month of 263.45 for Cluzel, in all 1263.45. Is it possible?" Matted and framed, so both sides may be viewed, along with a portrait of Pissarro, to an overall size of 23 x 16. Small tear along bottom of hinge, small mounting remnants on reverse of second page, and light toning and pencil notations to first page, otherwise fine condition.
Pissarro was well known and fairly successful at the time he sent this message to Durand-Ruel, but the burden of supporting a wife and family meant that it would be several more years before the artist became financially secure; meanwhile he was forced to rely upon friends and patrons such as Durand-Ruel. One of the first modern art dealers to provide support to his painters with stipends and solo exhibitions, he was also called upon at times—as evidenced here—to help bridge a financial gap. “I told him that this month it would not be easy, however I am letting you know in case you might send him a word,” Pissarro explains before outlining his budget for the month. Presumable, Durand-Ruel was gracious enough to extend the requested hand.
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