159 - FINI (Leonor, also known as Léonor) (1908–1996).

FINI (Leonor, also known as Léonor) (1908–1996). French surrealist painter, lithographer, theater set designer, and writer of Italian origin. A major figure in Surrealism, Leonor Fini developed a unique universe blending dreamlike imagery, eroticism, metamorphoses, and enigmatic female figures. Her work notably explores the relationships between desire, femininity, and the unconscious. Autograph letter to “Dear Pierre” [Pierre Besse]. Nonza (Corsica), June 18, 1960. 5 numbered handwritten pages, large quarto, in blue ink on white paper. Autograph stamped envelope, with a postmark from Nonza dated June 18, 1960. The signature at the end appears to be “Leonor”; this should be verified against the original. A very beautiful and lengthy letter in which Leonor Fini recounts, with her characteristic frankness, her stay in Corsica, the preparations for a theater set, her life with Stanislao Lepri and Margherita, and offers particularly delightful reflections on religion, morality, and sensuality. Settled in Nonza, on the Cap Corse, Leonor Fini thanks her correspondent for looking after her mother, who remained in Paris. She enthusiastically describes her new life on the shores of the Mediterranean: “It’s calm here—secluded—sunny; the sea is right below—magnificent. ” She recounts the first few days of her stay, marked by the transport and unpacking of her belongings, but also by preparations for a theater set: “Today is the most fun—finishing—decorating—sewing—gluing—etc.; a theater set without a hint of boredom.” A large part of her letter is devoted to her companions, Stanislao Lepri and Margherita, whose behaviors and concerns she describes with humor. She finds particular amusement in Margherita’s spiritual aspirations, which she contrasts with her own attachment to earthly pleasures, food, and sensuality. The artist then offers a very personal reflection on the religious history of the place, recounting the habits of the monks of old and highlighting the contrast between their way of life and the moral rules imposed upon them. She believes that the monks once lived: “Fully and harmoniously—that’s for sure. ” She also delights in her swims, the Mediterranean vegetation, and the happiness of her cats: “The cats are very euphoric—they come back covered in ears of grain—of gigantic grasses, with grasshoppers in their mouths. ” This letter offers a particularly evocative, intimate glimpse into Leonor Fini’s personal world, where artistic creation, daily life, sensuality, irony, and a fascination with animals intertwine. Leonor Fini occupied a unique place in the Surrealist movement, developing a body of work dominated by female figures, hybrid creatures, cats, and depictions of desire. She also designed numerous sets and costumes for theater and opera. Her stays in Corsica, where she regularly visited with her loved ones, were a special time of freedom and creativity. Condition: In good overall condition despite signs of handling. Old creases, wrinkles, slight marginal tears, and a few paper marks. Blue ink is well preserved. Envelope with stamp and postmark intact.