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An archive of Andrew Wyeth (1917-2009) and family autograph letters, signed, and printed cards, 21 items total. All are addressed to Nashville art patrons David and/or Peggy Steine, and dated between 1953 and 1970. The grouping includes 5 family cards and 14 Andrew Wyeth signed letters (with envelopes) plus 1 letter from Betsy Wyeth and 1 letter from a young Jamie Wyeth. The Andrew Wyeth letters range from thank you notes for gifts exchanged between the couples to communication about art purchases. The letter dated Dec. 24, 1954, Chadd’s Ford, states “Dear David, I was hoping that I would produce something really good for you before Christmas time. But I just can’t plan my paintings that way – the painting you next get of mine I want to be really tops so please be patient and something good will come out of all this waiting…” The letter of Nov. 14, 1955 discusses two watercolors he sent to the Steines for possible purchase, including one titled “Attic Window” which he says depicts “a deserted stone building of Revolutionary Date. Last spring in the late afternoon I walked into this building and was deeply moved and excited by the wood and color of the inside of this attic window. This painting was painted direct on the spot.” The Jan. 16, 1959 letter notes: “Betsy and I have bought an old mill on the Brandywine River three miles above Chadd’s Ford. It was built around 1730. I have painted around and in the old building ever since I was a little boy – here is a sketch of what it looks like.” (Note: the sketch is not included with this lot. It is believed to be the sketch sold in Case’s July 2024 auction, lot 132). The Holiday cards include: 1 Jamie Wyeth signed, printed black and white Christmas card of a figure holding a wreath; 1 photo-card depicting Andrew and Betsy Wyeth in a trash dump, with inscription “We’re in the dumps over the election but… a Merry Christmas Anyway – The Wyeths”; 1 card picturing Wyeth’s painting “Outpost”; 1 card picturing Wyeth’s painting “Sea Shells”, and 1 humorous Art Wood printed card depicting an abstract figure viewing Wyeth’s “Tenant Farmer” painting. (Note: none of the cards appear to be signed in Andrew Wyeth’s hand). Housed in sheet protectors in a black 11 in x 10 in binder.
PROVENANCE: The collection of Ronnie Steine, Nashville, by descent from his parents.
CONDITION: All items in overall good condition with light toning and signs of light handling wear. Photo card and Art Wood cards have full length creases.
