253 - LEBASQUE (Henri) (1865–1937).

LEBASQUE (Henri) (1865–1937). French painter and printmaker, a leading figure of Post-Impressionism, associated with the Nabis and the Fauves. Famous for his intimate scenes, his luminous landscapes, and his compositions celebrating the good life. A beautiful autograph letter signed “H. Lebasque” to a friend. Aix-les-Bains, July 9, undated. 2 pages, in-8 format, in black ink on white paper. An interesting letter in which Henri Lebasque discusses his work as a painter, his stay in Aix-les-Bains, and his plans to travel to Grenoble and Collioure, where he hopes to paint from life. The painter informs his correspondent that his month-long stay in Aix-les-Bains has come to an end, emphasizing the positive effects it has had on his health: “I have just spent a month in Aix; and I believe that the treatment I underwent in earnest has completely restored me to health. ” He is pleased with the improvement in his overall condition, despite some fatigue due to the treatment and unpredictable weather. Lebasque then discusses his work during this stay, regretting that he did not paint any landscapes despite the region’s beauty: “I worked a little, but I didn’t paint any landscapes, even though the countryside is beautiful; the weather was very changeable, and I wasn’t set up with all the equipment a proper landscape painter would need. ” He notes, however, that he did create several compositions: “I painted figure studies, and I think there are some you’ll like.” The painter then announces his departure for Grenoble, before heading to Collioure, from which he expects much for his painting: “I’m very much looking forward to it—both for my rheumatism and for spreading paint on the canvas.” He hopes to find sunshine and the sea there, conditions particularly conducive to his inspiration: “I haven’t seen any of the work there yet, but I’ve been told the region is very beautiful.” The letter concludes with various questions regarding paintings to be removed from an exhibition, as well as personal news and wishes for good health. This correspondence is of definite artistic interest due to Henri Lebasque’s insights into his working conditions, his approach to landscape painting, and his painting projects in the Midi. The mention of Collioure is particularly interesting. This Mediterranean port, associated with the emergence of Fauvism in the early 20th century, attracted many painters drawn to the light and colors of the Catalan coast. The distinction Lebasque draws between his figure paintings and his landscape paintings, as well as his desire to work directly from nature, give this letter real documentary value for understanding his artistic practice. Condition: Good overall condition. Old creases and slight signs of handling. Handwriting is clearly legible, with a few faded passages.