257 - LÉVY-DHURMER (Lucien) (1865–1953). French painter, sculptor, and ceramicist; a leading figure in Symbolism.

LÉVY-DHURMER (Lucien) (1865–1953). French painter, sculptor, and ceramicist; a leading figure in Symbolism. Autograph letter signed “Lévy-Dhurmer” to a lady. Sorrento (Italy), undated. 2 pages, in-8 format, on letterhead from the Hôtel de la Syrene. A CHARMING LETTER WRITTEN FROM SORRENTO, HUMOROUSLY RECALLING THE GRAY SKIES OF PARIS AND VESUVIUS. While on vacation on the Italian coast, Lucien Lévy-Dhurmer sends his correspondent an affectionate letter, imbued with humor and poetry. He expresses concern about her return and the health of someone close to her, all while playfully contrasting Parisian customs with the mild Neapolitan climate: “Tell me that everything went well—that our patient is resting peacefully in his Napoleonic bed, surrounded by his routines and friends—while Parisians may love their gray skies, the same cannot be said of the people of Sorrento. ” He then mentions the vagaries of the Mediterranean climate: “We get more of it than we should—a few glimpses of sunshine—and rain, wind, and storms prove that nothing is perfect!” And he concludes with a touch of whimsy: “Don’t feel sorry for me, though—since my only neighbor across the way is Mount Vesuvius!” He hopes to receive news soon from his pen pal and her husband, before sending them his warmest regards. A beautiful travel letter, written in a familiar and witty tone, reflecting the painter’s poetic sensibility and his affection for his friends. Lucien Lévy-Dhurmer, a leading figure in French Symbolism, was particularly noted for his portraits and pastels with their dreamlike atmospheres. Notably, he painted portraits of Georges Rodenbach and Pierre Loti. He won a bronze medal at the 1900 World’s Fair. In good overall condition, with a few creases from mailing.