FINI (Leonor) (1907–1996). - Lot 160

FINI (Leonor) (1907–1996). French surrealist painter, lithographer, theater set designer, and writer of Italian origin. A major figure in Surrealism, Leonor Fini developed a unique universe blending dreamlike imagery, eroticism, metamorphoses, and enigmatic female figures. Her work notably explores the relationships between desire, femininity, and the unconscious. Autograph letter from Leonor Fini to “Dear Pierre” [Pierre Besse]. No place or date [probably Nonza, Corsica, circa 1960]. 2 folio-sized pages, in blue ink, on white paper. Creases and slight signs of handling. A very interesting, intimate letter in which Leonor Fini discusses the passing of several loved ones, her deep distress, and her passionate affection for her cats. She first thanks her correspondent for his latest letter, before confiding in him about her particularly painful emotional state: “I am tired and deeply traumatized.” She informs him of the death of Prince Caracciolo, the patron who commissioned the work *La Sainte et le Dragon* and a longtime friend of both Stanislao Lepri and herself. This death comes on top of several other losses that have occurred in a short period of time, notably those of some of her cats: “It’s too much! In just two months. (And that includes the cats).” She then enthusiastically welcomes Pierre Besse’s offer to visit her, while giving him detailed instructions on how to care for the cats: their food, their schedules, and the care they need in case of digestive problems. She specifically mentions Nurse Retoré’s advice and Marelini’s upcoming visit. This letter offers particularly revealing insight into Leonor Fini’s personal world, where animals play an essential role. Her cats, ever-present companions in her daily life, are also a recurring element in her artistic imagination and her paintings. The mention of Prince Caracciolo and *The Saint and the Dragon* adds artistic interest to this correspondence, which also reveals the artist’s sensitivity and vulnerability.

Estimate:£167.43

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