George Bellows Humorous ALS Pledging to Newlyweds a Painting or Drawing "not to exceed in value Ten Thousand Dollars"

A 1p autograph letter signed by American artist George Bellows (1882-1925), signed as "Geo Bellows" at lower right. N.d, n.p. Expected paper folds, two vertical folds with corresponding minor closed tears. Another minor closed tear is present along the top edge. Deeply impressed handwriting of uneven ink flow. Else very good to near fine. 7.875" x 9.75."

Bellows addressed this undated congratulatory letter to a married couple named "Ted + Meta."

In full, with unchanged spelling and punctuation:

"Dear Ted + Meta or
Dear Meta + Ted.

This Certificate if presented at My Studio will be good for me painting or drawing with suitable frame. said painting or drawing not to exceed in value Ten Thousand Dollars (10,000.00)

The above certificate is sent [to] you in recognition of and delight in your recent marriage.

It must be presented in person.

Your[s] Truly.
Geo Bellows."

George Bellows was a member of the Ashcan School, a group of American artists whose realistic depictions of urban life were decried by some as too gritty. In addition to city scenes, snowscapes, and seascapes, Bellows is well-known for his portrayal of famous boxing matches, such as "Dempsey and Firpo" (1924). Bellows maintained a studio in the Lincoln Arcade Building at 1947 Broadway after 1906, and another studio in Woodstock, New York after 1920. While Bellows had achieved a reputation by 1908, it was highly unlikely if not incredible that any one of his works would sell for $10,000. (In 1925, the year Bellows died, this was the equivalent of $150,000 in 2021 currency!) We thus assume that the newly married couple would have appreciated Bellows's self-deprecating humor about his own professional success.

Bellows autographs are highly desirable since the artist died unexpectedly at age 42 of peritonitis following appendicitis.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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