DELACROIX Eugène (1798-1863). L.A.S. "Eug. Delacroix", December 28, 1856, to François HEIM; 1 page and a half in8. At the time of his candidacy to the Institute (he will be elected on January 10). He is very upset not to be able to go and see Heim to discuss "the very interesting subject that occupies me", detained at home for the last twelve days by a "neglected cold" which has worsened into "inflammation of the throat". He asks him to explain his situation to their colleagues, and sends them apology cards. He hopes to be able to go out again soon: "I shall be very happy to go and tell you of my fears and hopes, to you who have welcomed me so well"...

Composed of several subsidiaries, the Drouot Group is a major player in the art market. Hôtel Drouot, located in the heart of Paris, has been the world's largest public auction center since 1852. 15 salerooms are available to more than 70 auction houses. The emulation generated by an annual offer of 230,000 artworks from 21 major specialities - from Antiquity to street art - attracts some 3,000 visitors every day. The Group's digital platform, Drouot.com, offers digital sales - Live auctions (live broadcasting and participation in auctions), Online-only auctions (dematerialised auctions) and Buy Now sales (sales of lots at fixed prices). Nearly 2 million items are offered annually by 600 auction houses. Auction news is reported every week in La Gazette Drouot, the leading weekly magazine for the art market and culture published by Auctionspress.