Letter from Joseph Duveen to Henry Clay Frick, 22 September 1911

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LETTERHEAD

DUVEEN BROTHERS 20, PLACE VENDÔME PARIS Sept. 22/11. 19_

/LETTERHEAD


UNDERLINED H. C. Frick, Esq., page 3. /UNDERLINED


Then within the last few days we have purchased one of the most famous full-length VANDYCKS in the world. You will perhaps recollect my showing you an engraving of it, in Newyork. SIC It is really something quite extraordinary, and absolutely worthy of your Collection. The fact of its purchase has been kept very secret, and I fancy people will be surprised when they hear it is in our hands. Indeed, in order that no one may have a chance of seeing it, I have not yet taken it away from the owner's house, but I shall do so next week and have it packed for Newyork; SIC and it will be the first thing I shall have the pleasure of showing you there on my arrival. The colouring is blue and light, and would go well with the fine Gansborough and the Romney in the Dining-room.


We are, also, negotiating for a very famous full-length SIR JOSHUA - another marvellous picture. I have been busy workingat SIC its acquisition for some weeks now, and expected to have it settled last Sunday, but the appointment was postponed till next Sunday. I am therefore going to London tomorrow afternoon with the hope of settling the matter; and if I succeed, the picture will of course be first offered to you.


We have purchased other very good pictures, but nothing quite important enough for you.


I must also report to you that we are negotiating a collection of fine Italian paintings, the owner of which died sometime ago. It contains some remarkably fine specimens, but as nothing can be done before November, I shall have time to talk to you about them in Newyork. SIC I know you have not bought many early Italian pictures, but it occurred to me that if you had an opportunity to acquire some well-authenticated ones of the very first importance, you might be tempted.


I am sure you will be pleased to know that we have had a marvellous season, in spite of the depression in the American markets. I have often thought of your prophecy to me last May - that bad times were ahead ! and what a true prophecy it was.


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