June 2021 Auction Ends Thursday, June 24th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/24/2021
Ivan Turgenev autograph letter signed from 1868, shortly after the publication of ''Smoke'', the novel widely critiqued by Russian patriots. Turgenev writes about the novel in this letter, to the French socialite Valentine Delesser, noting what he considered a poor translation of it in ''Le Correspondant''. Written from Baden, Germany on 9 March 1868, letter translated from French reads,
''Dear Madam, You should have been given yesterday, on my behalf, a copy of my latest novel, titled Smoke; I had hoped to be able to bring it to you myself, as I was supposed to take a trip to Paris; but the illness of one of my friends kept me here and I cannot yet be certain of what day I will depart. - I know, from my daughter, that you read Smoke in Le Correspondant; I nearly regret that, for that translation teemed with errors. I had to make changes in a few places. This time, at least, it is very exact.
You have had a lot of sorrow, dear Madam, in these recent times - and your health has been greatly tested by it; I hope, however, that you will give your friends the joy of seeing you restored soon. My trip being merely postponed, I intend to go in a little while to see for myself how your health is progressing; and in the meantime, please trust in the unwavering and sincere affection sworn to you by your / I. Turgenev / P.S. Thousands of good wishes to all yours. My volume was published by J. Hetzel.''
Two page letter is elegantly written by Turgenev on a single sheet of 5.5'' x 8.375'' paper. Folds and light wear, overall very good plus condition.
Ivan Turgenev Autograph Letter Signed Regarding His Novel ''Smoke'' -- ''...I know...that you read Smoke in Le Correspondant; I nearly regret that, for that translation teemed with errors...''
Click above for larger image.