Charles Lindbergh
A vintage 6.5″ x 4.5″ photograph of Charles Lindbergh standing with French President Gaston Doumergue and U.S. Ambassador Myron Herrick in Paris after Lindbergh received the Cross of the Legion of Honor on May 23rd 1927. Signed vertically in fountain pen, 'Charles A. Lindbergh'. In fine condition, with light creasing and silvering. Additionally signed by Herrick. A marvellous memento of an occasion that took place just a day after his famous Transatlantic flight. Myron Herrick documented the events of Lindbergh's Parisian stay following the aviator's historic solo transatlantic flight: 'The next day serious business began. The President wanted to see him, Monsieur Poincaré wanted to see him, the Aero Club arranged a reception, the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate both invited him to pay them a visit and suspended their sitting to receive him; a medal was struck in his honour, the city of Paris gave him a reception, he was decorated, fêted, and adored. He deserved it all, and it was fine to see him bearing himself throughout like the charming young gentleman he is… I have an idea this was the happiest morning of his stay in Paris.'
John F. Kennedy
An excellent signed and inscribed matte-finish 10.5″ x 13.5″ portrait photograph by John F. Kennedy, signed and inscribed in the lower border in fountain pen, 'For Ezra Glaser — with every good wish, John Kennedy'. In very fine condition. A superb example. The recipient, Ezra Glaser (1913-2010), was a lifelong senior-level employee in government service who served as a statistician in the U.S. National Recovery Administration, National Resources Planning Board, and the Navy Department, amongst others. In 1962, Glaser was appointed as the Assistant Commissioner of Patents, which was very likely when Kennedy presented him with this photograph.
Ivan Turgenev
A good one page autograph letter signed by Turgenev, 'Iv. Tourgueneff', 29th January (no year). The author writes in French in fountain pen ink. In full, 'The painting by Drouais is at Bruant's, rue de la Chaussée d'Antin, 6. There is also a curious painting by Meissonnier at Petit, rue Saint Georges, 7. I plan to bring you the volume of Leconte de Lisle the day after tomorrow in the morning. Sending my best wishes, Iv. Tourgueneff.' A straight tear to the left edge, close to but not touching the text, otherwise in very fine condition.
King Charles III
Charles III, King (1948 – ) An extraordinary two-page autograph letter signed by King Charles III, March 25th 1954, as a young boy of five, addressed to his father, the Duke of Edinburgh. The young Charles writes in bold pencil on both sides of a Buckingham Palace headed sheet of paper (horizontal lines added, presumably by an adult, to keep his writing straight!) He writes, in full, 'Dear Papa, I am longing to see you in the ship. Love from Charles'. He adds kisses and hugs after his signature. Central vertical fold, otherwise in very fine condition. An extraordinary document written during the Queen and Prince Philip's two month tour of Australia in February-March 1954. The couple arrived in Sydney Harbour on 3rd February 1943 on the SS Gothic.
King Charles III
Charles III, King (1948 – ) A very interesting and amusing original drawing by King Charles III, accomplished as a child, circa 1957. The young prince has drawn a detailed image, using various colour pencils, of a bearded man wearing a captain's peaked cap, pulling a pint of bear and holding a piece of paper on which the word 'Master' is written. Beneath the tankard of beer is the label 'Hair Restorer'. Charles has signed his name boldly. at the top of the 7.5″ X 8.5″ sheet. To the reverse, he has written 'Papa' in different colour pencils, indicating that the drawing was more than likely gifted to his father. Prince Philip did indeed sport a beard in 1957, and travelled the world on HMY Brittania. A terrific son-to-father joke encapsulated on a page. A horizontal central fold, otherwise in very fine condition. An extraordinary item.
Ian Fleming
Fleming, Ian (1908 – 1964) 'James Bond must emulate that exploit' A fine typed letter signed by Ian Fleming ('Yours ever, Ian'), Kemsley House letterhead, May 2nd 1957. Fleming writes to fellow author R. W. Thompson. In full: 'What an extraordinary kind thought to have written such a warm and splendid letter. I couldn't have been more pleased, although there is surely a touch of the old Thompson hyperbole in your praise. Anyway it was intoxicating stuff to find on my same old desk in W.C.l. on a dull Thursday morning. I do hope all goes well with you and that being a writer in your own time and not a hireling has proved the right choice. I am sure it was. Your wine is far too new for the aged fiascos of Fleet Street. I shall never forget that bed of roses story about you — in Belgium I think it was — at the end of the war. One day James Bond must emulate that exploit. Again a thousand thanks for the wonderful letter.' Fleming adds the salutation in his own hand: 'My dear Tommy'. In fine condition, with a short tear, and paper loss, to the upper right corner. A warm letter of reply from Fleming, who, true to his word, would revisit 'that bed of roses story' in From A View To A Kill, one of five short stories published in the 1960 book For Your Eyes Only. The referenced passages read as follows: '…there was a low mound, perhaps a tumulus, covered with brier roses…' (p. 34), '…inside the mound, deep down in the earth, was the most professional spy unit that had ever been devised…a shiver of excitement and anticipation, almost of fear ran down Bond's spine…' (p. 38), and 'Instead of the periscope, a rose-stalk aerial would rise up from the bush… deep down under the earth off would go the high-speed cipher' (p. 40). Fleming letters referencing his iconic James Bond character are especially scarce, with this particular example all the more desirable given its creative connection to a well-known 007 short story. Reginald William Thompson (1904-1977) was an Army officer, journalist, author and friend of Ian Fleming. He served in World War II and was promoted to Captain before being transferred to the Intelligence Corps for training. After demobilization, Thompson joined the Kemsley Newspaper Group, attending and reporting on the Nuremberg trials. He travelled extensively as a war correspondent for the Sunday Times. In 1951, Thompson settled in Suffolk to write full-time on military subjects.
Claude Debussy
Debussy, Claude (1862 – 1918) 'I haven't the least intention of disconcerting my contemporaries with insomnious harmonies.' A fine three-page autograph letter signed by Claude Debussy ('Cl. Debussy'). Written on October 5th 1890 (according to postal stamp on accompanying envelope) in fountain pen ink on a single folded sheet of paper, and addressed to his friend, the composer Raymond Bonheur (1861 – 1939). Debussy opens with a flourish: 'I've wanted to write to you for days and days; some annoyances of revolting banality have prevented me from doing so. I don't dare tell you that the rare and fine incense launched by you over the melodies rises deliciously to my nostrils, for then I would immediately have to behave like an exalted idol and be obliged to accomplish miracles and assume a posture that is pretty tiring in an age of upheaval.' He goes on, 'Besides, I haven't the least intention of disconcerting my contemporaries with insomnious harmonies. I simply want the assent of people like yourself, who are disinterested in easy programmes and are truly willing to believe in music devoid of impure mixtures. Why look first at the label, and put oneself on the level of things that are sold in the bazaars? Let us make music that contains our whole lives and not merely small corners of it fit only for those who gape and engage in small talk and who never create it [he adds an asterisk, adding a comment below, '*And indeed for those who do create it!'] and that way we will not get in the way of literature or philosophy. With that, I shall expect you one of these days, and am yours very cordially and amicably, Cl. Debussy'. In very fine condition, and together with the original hand-addressed envelope. An interesting and early letter from the composer on the cusp of a new style (a style later known as 'impressionism'), written as it is during a period of flux and inspiration. An ardent follower of Wagner in the 1890s, Debussy had recently concluded that to imitate his style would not be the way forward; he famously described the German composer as 'a beautiful sunset that was mistaken for a dawn'. In 1889, he had first heard Gamelan music at the Paris Exposition, and his friendship with Satie began in 1890; in Satie, he found a kindred spirit. Debussy's subsequent output in the 1890s included celebrated works such as Pelleas et Mellisande, his String Quartet, Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune and many important piano works; of particular note is his piano piece Rêverie, written in 1890, which employs impressionistic techniques accompanied by late romantic harmony, creating a dreamlike and ambiguous musical landscape — a style he would carry forward into some of his most important works of the period.
Nelson Mandela
Mandela, Nelson (1918 – 2013) 'A younger generation… guiding the country towards a secure and prosperous future' An excellent typed letter signed by Nelson Mandela ('N. Mandela'), on his personal letterhead, April 17th 2004. A lengthy letter to Dr. Ivan May. In full: 'There could have been no more appropriate way for South Africans to celebrate the first decade of democracy than going to the polls in this period. Nothing else symbolised the birth of our non-racial democracy so vividly as those wonderful election days in April 1994. The nation came together in the physical act of voting on those days; it is proper that we marked a decade in the life of democratic South Africa by once more coming out voting for our national and provincial legislatures.' 'We had many challenges and obstacles in our national life over this past decade and the problems ahead remain large and daunting. Too many people in our country are still suffering the hardships and deprivations of poverty. One of the root causes of that poverty is the absence of jobs; nothing can be more of an assault on a person's dignity than the inability to find work and gainful employment. Accompanying poverty are myriads of social ills — illiteracy, homelessness, exposure to preventable diseases, general penury and social vulnerability. And the threat of HIV/AIDS looms large in virtually all aspects of our national life.' 'What we can say, though, is that we now have the weapon and the protection of democracy to face and tackle those problems and challenges. The simplest, but therefore also most fundamental, gain of our democracy is that the people govern. There may be shortcomings in delivery; government departments and officials may in some cases be under-performing; certain interest groups may feel that they are not sufficiently catered for; there are certainly many areas of legitimate and valid complaint and dissatisfaction. All of this, however, is played out, contested, debated and accounted for within the secure framework of a multi-party pluralist democracy.' 'Because of our democracy—non-racial, non-sexist, accommodating of diversity—we have managed over this decade to cement the unity of our nation. Whatever differences we may have and tensions that may exist, our democratic constitutional order is not threatened. We are solidly one nation, united in our diversity, held together by our common commitment to the constitution. We have indeed put our racially divided past firmly behind us and face the future with the confidence of a united, non-racial, democratic country.' 'That future lies in the hands of people and it has been a particular source of satisfaction to observe, especially over these last five years, a younger generation of leaders guiding the country towards a secure and prosperous future. President Thabo Mbeki is a shining and inspiring example of this. His firm leadership and clear vision had manifested not only in the remarkable progress South Africa has made, but also in continental and international affairs. The steady regeneration of Africa and the regard with which South Africa is held internationally are in no small measure due to his work and efforts.' 'The growth, consolidation and sustained health of our democracy are the responsibilities not only of leaders, but also of each and every citizen. We may not take our liberty and our democracy for granted. Too many people in all walks of life and over many years and decades suffered and sacrificed for its achievement. The almost miraculous triumph of reason and compassion over prejudice and fear at the time of our peaceful transition is too precious.' 'Every political party and organisation has a responsibility to keep our democracy alive, our people united and our country progressing towards peace and prosperity. Every individual in every sector of society has the responsibility to remain a caring South African, never indifferent to the affairs and well-being of our c
English philosopher, one of the initiators of analytic philosophy. A scarce signed document, 'G. E. Moore, Professor of Philosophy', one page, Cambridge, 13th May 1935. The typescript document (with two holograph additions) is a letter of testimonial for Miss Alice Ambrose, whom Moore had supervised on a weekly basis for more than two years during term times, and who had attended Moore´s lectures and discussion classes. The document states, in part, 'She is an industrious and intelligent student, of a very steady and reliable character; and it is a pleasure to have her for a pupil. The subject upon which she is engaged in research, viz. the question as to what there is of value in the views of the so-called "Finitist" school in the philosophy of mathematics, is a subject of great importance but also of very great difficulty. Miss Ambrose is well aware of the difficulties and is making a resolute and persevering effort to attain real clearness as to the fundamental issues involved in the controversy. She seems to me to be thoroughly deserving of any award which can be made to her to enable her to carry on her work'. A little frayed and with some small tears to the upper edge, and a couple of small, very minor tears to other edges, otherwise in fine condition. Alice Ambrose (1906-2001) American philosopher, logician and author. Ambrose studied at Newnham College, Cambridge University, under G. E. Moore and Ludwig Wittgenstein, becoming a close disciple of the latter and earning a second PhD in 1938. Ambrose secretly made notes during Wittgenstein´s lectures, which he did not allow, and which were later published. Ambose would also later write of her association with Wittgenstein in Ludwig Wittgenstein: Philosophy and Language (1972). In 1935, the same year as the present document, Wittgenstein abruptly terminated his association with Ambrose when the student decided, following the encouragement of G. E. Moore, to publish an article entitled Finitism in Mathematics in the philosophical journey Mind, which was intended to give an account of Wittgenstein´s position on the subject.
A signed book by Andy Warhol, being a hardback edition of Warhol, first edition published by The Tate Gallery, London, 1971, as the exhibition catalogue for Warhol's works on display at the gallery from 17th February to 28th March 1971, featuring a foreword by Norman Reid, an essay by Richard Morphet, and various illustrations (some in colour). Signed by Warhol with his name alone to the front cover of the colour dust jacket, which features his famous 1964 image of Marilyn Monroe (an image of Elizabeth Taylor entitled Liz from 1963 appears on the back cover). The signature is rather light although remains perfectly legible. Some light wrinkling and minor age wear to the dust jacket and some very light foxing to the title pages, otherwise in generally fine condition.
Fleming, Ian (1908 – 1964) 'James Bond must emulate that exploit' A fine typed letter signed by Ian Fleming ('Yours ever, Ian'), Kemsley House letterhead, May 2nd 1957. Fleming writes to fellow author R. W. Thompson. In full: 'What an extraordinary kind thought to have written such a warm and splendid letter. I couldn't have been more pleased, although there is surely a touch of the old Thompson hyperbole in your praise. Anyway it was intoxicating stuff to find on my same old desk in W.C.l. on a dull Thursday morning. I do hope all goes well with you and that being a writer in your own time and not a hireling has proved the right choice. I am sure it was. Your wine is far too new for the aged fiascos of Fleet Street. I shall never forget that bed of roses story about you — in Belgium I think it was — at the end of the war. One day James Bond must emulate that exploit. Again a thousand thanks for the wonderful letter.' Fleming adds the salutation in his own hand: 'My dear Tommy'. In fine condition, with a short tear, and paper loss, to the upper right corner. A warm letter of reply from Fleming, who, true to his word, would revisit 'that bed of roses story' in From A View To A Kill, one of five short stories published in the 1960 book For Your Eyes Only. The referenced passages read as follows: '…there was a low mound, perhaps a tumulus, covered with brier roses…' (p. 34), '…inside the mound, deep down in the earth, was the most professional spy unit that had ever been devised…a shiver of excitement and anticipation, almost of fear ran down Bond's spine…' (p. 38), and 'Instead of the periscope, a rose-stalk aerial would rise up from the bush… deep down under the earth off would go the high-speed cipher' (p. 40). Fleming letters referencing his iconic James Bond character are especially scarce, with this particular example all the more desirable given its creative connection to a well-known 007 short story. Reginald William Thompson (1904-1977) was an Army officer, journalist, author and friend of Ian Fleming. He served in World War II and was promoted to Captain before being transferred to the Intelligence Corps for training. After demobilization, Thompson joined the Kemsley Newspaper Group, attending and reporting on the Nuremberg trials. He travelled extensively as a war correspondent for the Sunday Times. In 1951, Thompson settled in Suffolk to write full-time on military subjects.
Earhart signs a portrait midway through her doomed circumnavigation attempt of 1937! An extraordinary signed 7″ X 5″ photograph by Amelia Earhart, showing the aviatrix posing in front of her Lockheed Model 10-E Electra aeroplane during her ill-fated attempt to circumnavigate the world. This image was taken in Dakar, Senegal on either June 8th or 9th 1937. Earhart is shown alongside four other gentlemen in sunhats. She herself is dressed in a black-and-white patterned shirt and jumpsuit. She has signed boldly in fountain pen ink, and the image is additionally signed by Fred Noonan, her navigator, who perished alongside Earhart in July 1937. The photograph bears a 'Lataque' stamp to the reverse, as well as a 'Lataque' imprint to the lower right of the image, indicating that the image was taken by the Senegal-based French photographer Oscar Lataque. In very fine condition. We have found images of two of the exact same gentlemen pictured alongside Earhart — they appear to have been mechanics who worked on Earhart's plane in Dakar in June 1937. These images can be found above for reference. Earhart had flown from Brazil to Saint Louis, Senegal, arriving on June 8th, before flying on to Dakar the same day. She remained in Dakar until June 10th. Hence the photograph can be accurately dated to June 8th or 9th 1937, during that stay in Dakar. Earhart was also pictured wearing this exact same shirt in a famous image alongside Noonan a few days earlier, on June 7th 1937 in Natal, Brazil. The photographer, Oscar Lataque, was based in Senegal; after taking this image on 8th or 9th June 1937, he had to have developed it in time for signatures to be sought prior to Earhart's departure on 10th June 1937. Earhart and Noonan then made further stops in Africa, India and South East Asia, before taking their final ill-fated flight from Papua New Guinea on July 2nd 1937. Given the deductions above, it seems likely that this is one of the last images — if not the very last — to be signed by Earhart. An extraordinary piece of aviation history.
A marvellous large autograph quotation signed by Jean-Paul Sartre, apparently unpublished, written on a large approximately 12″ X 14″ sheet, opening, 'In a society of statues we would be very bored; but we would live there according to justice and reason'. He goes on to compare the place that the face and the body would have in a society of statues with that occupied in contemporary society. He notes that the body and face, particularly those of women, are reified and denatured: "In human societies, faces reign. The body is serfed, we swaddle it, we disguise it, its role is to carry like a mule, a waxy relic… A woman knows it, her face is an erotic altar, it has been overloaded with dead victims, fruits, flowers, massacred birds; on his cheeks, on his lips we traced red signs. Society of faces, society of wizards.' The present manuscript was apparently written in 1949 on the occasion of Robert Lapoujade's exhibition 50 Drawings at the Chardin gallery, and is close in substance and form to The Second Sex by Simone de Beauvoir, published that same year. Together with an original drawing of Sartre, apparently drawn by Robert Lepoujade himself, on a 9″ X 12″ sheet, pasted onto an adjoining page. The two could be exhibited side by side. Quite rare and desirable in this format.
An extraordinary, historic signed 12″ X 17″ group photograph (image size 11″ X 14″)by Jawaharlal Nehru and other commonwealth leaders, pictured together at the 1948 Commonwealth Prime Minister's Conference. Boldly signed below the image by all those pictured: Jawaharlal Nehru, Liaquat Ali Khan, Peter Fraser, Clement Attlee, Herbert Evatt, William Lyon McKenzie Smith, Don Stephen Senayake, Eric Louw and Sir Godfrey Huggins. Attractively matted and framed, and in very fine condition. Formerly the property of Liaquat Ali Khan (1895 – 1951), first Prime Minister of Pakistan. This conference was held in London in October 1948. It was the first meeting to be attended by the Prime Ministers of the recently independent Asian states of India, Ceylon and Pakistan. A rare and desirable item.
