166 - FINI (Leonor) (1908–1996).

FINI (Leonor) (1908–1996). A painter, draftsman, lithographer, theater set designer, and writer of Argentine origin, she was a leading figure in Surrealist art. Born in Buenos Aires, Leonor Fini moved to Paris in the 1930s, where she frequented avant-garde artistic and literary circles. Her work, populated by enigmatic female figures, sphinxes, and fantastical creatures, occupies a unique place in 20th-century art. Autograph letter signed “Leonor” to Pierre Besse. Nonza (Corsica), August 3, 1960. 3 folio-sized pages, in red ink, on white paper. Envelope preserved, addressed to Pierre Besse, Hôtel du Beaujolais, Rue du Beaujolais, Paris, with a stamp and postmarks. A lovely personal letter in which Leonor Fini thanks her correspondent for a glass vase, describes her tastes in interior design, and speaks fondly of the works of art she hopes to collect for her Paris apartment. She begins by thanking Pierre Besse for a gift that seems to have particularly charmed her: “Thank you for the very, very pretty vase. What a lovely shape—like a Roman ‘lacrimatorium’ [...] ” She explains that these small ancient vials were intended, according to a widespread tradition at the time, to collect tears. Charmed by the object, she immediately imagines using it with a flower or a leaf, before noting how well it harmonizes with the colors of her interior. The artist then describes a full-fledged decorating project, revealing her taste for mysterious and refined atmospheres: “I’d love to have it for myself, draped in dark fabrics—just a sofa and upholstered shelves, and nothing but Gallet vases of all shapes and heights. ” She also thanks her correspondent for photographs of furniture she finds remarkable, mentions a piece of furniture with arches, and then expresses concern about his health: “Amir told me that you look unwell and are very tired. I’ve already spoken to you about this—you’re terrible at taking care of yourself…” This correspondence is of particular interest for understanding Leonor Fini’s aesthetic world and private life. Her descriptions of antique objects, vases, dark fabrics, and interior designs illustrate her taste for staging domestic spaces, a true extension of her artistic imagination. It also attests to the artist’s close relationship with Pierre Besse and her appreciation for the decorative objects he provided her. Condition: Generally good condition. Age-related creases, some wrinkles, and slight signs of handling. Envelope shows wrinkles and wear, with a tear along the top edge. Red ink is well preserved.