1913 Mary Cassatt Autograph Letter Signed to Her Biographer
ALS in French, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.75 x 6.5, Mesnil-Beaufresne letterhead, July 30, [no year but c.1913]. Handwritten letter to writer and art critic Achille Segard, in full (translated): "I am happy to know that I may keep the book for a bit. If I could go over certain parts with you, that would be best, and I hope that I will have the pleasure of seeing you and Mrs. Segard here. If you are not able to come, I will make the corrections on my own. It does not matter what day, if you are able to come. It will be the same to me; just let me know in advance. I would have wished to show you a pastel or two. I am a bit disorganized, having been incapable of working for so long. There is a train to Chars in the mornings, leaving after ten o’clock. I don’t have a timetable at hand, but the train arrives in Chars at 11:29. My best compliments to Mrs. Segard." In fine condition, with light toning along the hinge.
In 1913, Achille Segard published 'Mary Cassatt: Un peintre des enfants et des mères,' the earliest biography of the American painter, which was based on a series of interviews with her. Cassatt took an active role in the book's writing and publication, as evidenced by her correspondence with Segard.