DEGAS Edgar (1834-1917)

Signed autograph letter addressed to an unknown Naples, January 5, 1886, 2 and a half pages in-8 in ink on double page. (Folds) A warm letter addressed to an unidentified addressee congratulating him and "Monsieur Gailhard" on receiving the Legion of Honour and mentioning that he feels close to them. "Sir, I had heard about your appointment in Paris, and it is in Naples, where I have been for a few days, that I have the pleasure of reading it in good letters and printing it. You and Mr. Gailhard have been so gracious to me, and you have been so particularly gracious to me, that I feel a little attached to your fortune, and that I am becoming, as they say, of the house. I have therefore seen in this house so much intelligence and activity, through all the imaginable difficulties, that in wishing you a Happy New Year, including good health, I am just doing my duty. The title of knight will also suit you very well, Sir, and this letter, as soon as I return to the opera, shakes your hand very respectfully. I ask Mr. Gailhard to receive all my wishes and my friendly remembrance. E. Degas Naples". It is likely that this is an allusion to Claude Ferdinand Gaillard (a slip of the Degas pen) who was effectively appointed Offi cier of the Legion in 1886, and whose work was part of the famous "Salon des refusés" of 1863. PROVENANCE Collection of Paige Rense Noland