KAHLO, FRIDA
An important unpublished archive of approximately twenty-five autograph letters to Jose Bartoli, with photographs and various enclosures. Mostly Coyoacan, Mexico: 1946-49. The archive comprising approximately twenty-five autograph letters in Spanish from Kahlo to Bartoli ranging from 2 to 12 pages in length, variously written in colored inks and in pencil, many on a very thin paper, with various enclosures including an original drawing of a sleeping cat, pressed flowers, pieces of ribbon, beads, a few enclosed with drafts of letters in Bartoli's hand with numerous cross-outs, edits and one drawing, each letter with its original or early envelope, most stamped and postmarked. Also included are a fine group of vintage photographs and color slides depicting Kahlo (several by Nickolas Muray) including one with an important inscription by Kahlo relating to her 1946 painting Tree of Hope. Finally, a 1958 letter from Ella Wolf to Bartoli is also present which encloses several photographs of Bartoli. The letters in an excellent state of preservation, usual folds, the letters and envelopes handled and with occasional creases, short tears, or misfolding, a few stamps excised from the envelopes, the photographs lightly handled and creased.
Provenance:
Jose Bartoli, by descent within the family to the current owner

A rare unpublished archive from one of the 20th century's most important artists. Poetically composed with a touch of Kahlo's characteristic surrealism, the letters contain illuminating content on important paintings including her 1946 Tree of Hope, an unknown pregnancy, her post-surgery relationship with Diego Rivera, personal and professional struggles, and her unwavering love for Bartoli. For a synopsis of each letter in the lot, please contact the Book Department.