247 - LE MOAL (Jean) (1909–2007).

LE MOAL (Jean) (1909–2007). French painter, a leading figure of the New School of Paris and lyrical abstraction. Born in Authon-du-Perche, Jean Le Moal moved to Paris in 1929 and contributed to the revival of French painting in the 1930s. Close to Alfred Manessier, Jean Bazaine, and other artists of the new generation, he developed a body of work in which light and color played an essential role. Autograph letter signed “J. Le Moal” to a friend. Paris, April 17, undated. 2 folio-sized pages, in black ink, on white paper. An interesting letter in which Jean Le Moal discusses his stay in Rouen with Alfred Manessier, his relationship with the painter Antoine Chartres, and the postponement of a solo exhibition. The painter first imagines his correspondent settled in the countryside and busy with his work, before giving an update on his own situation: “As for me, I had a rather lackluster stay in Rouen, but I went with Manessier to spend a few very chic days at Simone’s in Provins. ” He then mentions Antoine Chartres, who informed him of a change regarding his exhibition: “I returned yesterday to find a letter from Chartres telling me that the gallery had asked him to postpone his exhibition until the first half of May.” Le Moal regrets this situation, which disrupts his own plans: “I’m really annoyed—I won’t be able to see it [...]” He does, however, express his desire to leave Paris soon to visit his friend, planning a visit on Saturday morning or Sunday, depending on his availability. This correspondence is of interest for the history of Jean Le Moal’s artistic relationships during his formative years. In particular, it attests to his friendship with Alfred Manessier, another important figure in French non-figurative painting, and to their time spent together. The mention of Antoine Chartres and the scheduling difficulties related to an exhibition also provides insight into gallery life and the relationships between artists during the interwar period. Condition: Generally good condition. Old creases, some slight foxing, and signs of handling. Minor wear at the folds, with no apparent missing text.