251 - LÉANDRE (Charles-Lucien) (1862–1934).

LÉANDRE (Charles-Lucien) (1862–1934). French painter, draftsman, lithographer, and caricaturist. A student of Émile Bin, Charles Léandre was one of the most prominent caricaturists of the Belle Époque. A contributor to several illustrated newspapers, notably *Le Rire*, he also distinguished himself as a portraitist and painter. He won a bronze medal at the 1889 World’s Fair and the Medal of Honor from the Society of French Artists in 1921. Autograph letter signed “C. Léandre” to an investigating judge. Paris, undated. 3 pages in-12, in black ink, on a double sheet. A curious letter concerning a court summons that was mistakenly sent to the painter’s residence in Normandy, while he was waiting in Paris to be received by an investigating judge. Charles Léandre explains the circumstances of this misunderstanding to the magistrate: “While I was waiting here in Paris—from where I had written to you—for the new summons, it was on its way to me in Champsecret, Normandy, where you had sent it. ” The painter clarifies that he did not learn of the letter until much later, after his mother had forwarded it to him: “It arrived last night, and I found it at 11 a.m. when I returned home, since my mother had sent it back to me!” He expresses his regret for this setback and requests a new summons, preferably on a Saturday, when it would be easier for him to go to the courthouse. This correspondence provides a rare insight into Charles Léandre’s legal proceedings, though it does not allow us to determine the exact nature of the case in question. The mention of Champsecret, a village in the Orne department where the artist was born and maintained strong family ties, is also of biographical interest. Condition: Generally good condition. Old creases, slight signs of handling, and a few small foxing spots. The paper remains in good condition.