January 2020 Auction Ends Thursday, January 30th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/30/2020
Charming autograph letter twice-signed by Rudolph Valentino, dated 7 August 1910, revealing his age as a young 15 year old, with hints in the letter of the romantic icon he would become. From his home in Taranto, Italy, Valentino writes his childhood friend Bruno Pozzan, with the envelope hand-addressed by Valentino included. Four page letter in Italian is signed twice by Valentino with his real name ''Rodolfo'', translating in part, ''Dear Bruno, Excuse me for not having written to you sooner, but I just didn't have time, you've probably read that they held here the big games of the Italian championship, most of which were won by the 'Bucintoro' and the 'Querini', both from Venice. I really have a lot of fun every fifteen days, when the English arrive on the Australian ship, I know a little English, and I have fun walking and talking with them. You've probably also read that in September the big Naval maneuvers will be held here, and that the King will be present. Besides the championship races, there was one for the local championship, and the prize Apula Cup was won by Taranto's team, the 'Due Mari'. If you are in Venice, please send me your address. Are Ugo and Riccardo in school, or have they gone home? Something which will help Taranto to grow, in addition to the paving in asphalt of the city's streets, is the foundation of the Technical Institute. Tell them at school about all these improvements which they're making and which have already been made at Taranto. And make sure that the 'poet' hears it - he'll really be furious, because he's always making fun of Taranto, that jerk from San Severino. Here I don't do anything except go to the Cafe-Chantant [Music Hall] and have fun with the singers there, and if you were stuck in boarding school now, I bet you'd be jealous, wouldn't you? Write to me often, and I'll do the same. A big kiss from your devoted friend / Rodolfo''. An additional fourth page, which appears to be a postscript, is also signed Rodolfo but not translated. Letter on bifolium stationery measures 8.5'' x 7''. Folds, else near fine condition with neat, legible handwriting by Valentino.
Rudolph Valentino Autograph Letter Twice-Signed With His Real Name Rodolfo, as a 15-Year Old -- ''...I don't do anything except go to the Cafe-Chantant and have fun with the singers...''
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