242 - LANSKOY (Alex). Wife of the Russian-born painter André Lanskoy.

LANSKOY (Alex). Wife of the Russian-born painter André Lanskoy. AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED “A. Lanskoy” TO JOËLLE WITOLD, FOLLOWING THE DEATH OF COMPOSER AND MUSICOLOGIST JEAN WITOLD. Paris, 78 Avenue Mozart, February 28, 1966. 4 pages, folio size, written in large handwriting in brown ink. Original envelope preserved, stamped and postmarked. A moving letter of condolence reflecting the bonds of friendship between the Lanskoys and the composer and musicologist Jean Witold and his wife. Deeply affected by the passing of their friend, Alex Lanskoy confides to her correspondent her distress and helplessness in the face of the pain of grief: “My whole soul is with you—even though I cannot see you. In this immense pain, one does not know what to do. ” She speaks of the close ties between their families, apologizes for not having been able to find the strength to attend the funeral, and expresses concern for the widow’s financial situation: “I imagine you must be facing terrible financial difficulties. ” She offers to come and provide her with help and support. An intimate and particularly touching account of friendship and solidarity in the Parisian artistic and musical circles of the 1960s. A few creases and slight signs of handling. The envelope shows minor signs of wear.