ABEL GANCE

(1889-1981) French film director, playwright and stage actor best known for his epic silent film, “Napoleon” (1927).

Early Autograph Letter SIGNED with Musical Quotation, in French, 4to, Neuilly, n.d,. but 1913.

In his theater related early letter, Gance discusses his new and very long play and his desire to see "La Pisanelle." He includes one bar of music likely from "La Pisanelle," which he hoped to attend with his correspondent, Roland. "La Pisanelle," was a "Comedy in Three Acts" by Gabrielle D'Annunzio and choreographed by Fokine performed in Paris in 1913. The full title is, "La Pisanelle ou La mort parfumée." Gance begins the letter with the declaration, "My Victoire is complete and I leave it to 'La Dame' about whom I wanted to talk with you...." He likely refers to the five hour long tragedy he wrote, "Victoire de Samothrace." He had hoped Sarah Bernhardt, "La Dame" would star opposite him. Our research indicates that she had agreed to the performance, however, the outbreak of World War I in August 1914 interfered. Gance wrote the letter in purple ink and signed in a bold hand, "Abel Gance," followed by his address. Condition: Overall good condition, tape at margin fold of center margin on both sides apparently to prevent splitting, chipping in lower corners in several places along right edge all visible in the image.

The musical notation in particular makes this a scarce letter.

Item #4741

Price: $1,250.00