ORIGINAL AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED by French Filmmaker GEORGE MELIES

Description: MELIES, GEORGE. Original Autograph Letter Signed by French Filmmaker George Melies. Single sheet folded, 4 7/16” x 6 7/8”, Original Autograph Letter Signed by French Filmmaker George Melies. Written on a single 8 7/8” x 6 7/8” sheet which has been folded into 3 panels. The letter is written entirely in French and translates in full: “July 13, My dear Mr. Drioux, My letter which will arrive with this one stayed for several days ‘in the bottle’, I didn't have your address in Nice, only received yesterday evening. (It’s the one containing the Carmelli article.) Since I have completed Main Jaune [Yellow Hand], which I am sending you; unfortunately this number requires, for its comprehension, numerous illustrations. Mr. Ventura is certainly going to wish me to the devil! For, as I know it will cause trouble to recopy all of it, I didn’t exert myself on the drawings; they are clear, that’s all, but executed in haste. Mr. Ventura, with his usual reliable hand, will give them the required clarity. I myself am doing this on my knees, and messed up as always, then you talk about easy work! The article ‘Pour Vous’ double center page, with photos, which was devoted entirely to me, appeared last Thursday. Good free publicity for me; but full of errors; they said the French couldn’t remain in America due to the Edison Patents, and, quite the contrary, Pathe and I were solely authorised in this country. In one photo where I’m pictured at 31 years old, with Renlos my associate of the period and the famous servant Marius, in front of a handmade poster, they put; Melies and his aides showing off!!!! Finally, they treat me like an old man! Certainly, I’m not young, but really, I am not yet, thank God, gaga, drooling, impotent, crotchety, senile and doddering!! That will come, perhaps, unfortunately, it’s the common lot, but really, for the moment, I am still pretty strong and lively. Enclosed are the text for Main Jaune and the corresponding drawings, then the announced tableau, published by Noverre. There will be others. Right now he’s writing his 1st brochure on my life, I have the proofs, it will be very interesting. When they come out I will send you a copy of each of them. Cordially yours, and beg Mr. Ventura’s pardon for me for the ‘chore’ which will be his. G. Melies.” With a hint of age-toning and minor creases from folding, else fine. Georges Melies (1861-1938), arguably the most innovative early filmmaker in the world. Early in his career, Melies purchased the Theatre Robert-Houdin in Paris as a venue for his magic and illusion show, which inspired him to develop his interest and talent in creating unusual and fantastical visual imagery in a cinematic format. George Melies is perhaps best known for his 1902 film, A Trip to the Moon. In 1931 he was awarded a Legion of honor medal for his rich and valuable contribution to the art of film.

Price: 5100 USD

Location: Santa Barbara, California

End Time: 2025-02-14T16:03:47.000Z

Shipping Cost: 6 USD