Viewing page 125 of 128

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

                      April 9th., 1948
^[[initials]]

Dear Arthur:

    It was very pleasant indeed to have seen you here looking so well, in spite of the operation you underwent, and I hope the California sunshine will restore whatever energy you still lack. 

    As per your instructions, I am having the delightful "Nu au Collier" by Picasso sent to you by registered mail, and trust it will arrive in perfect condition. Herein do find the invoice covering your purchase. You will notice, I have adjusted the price, as I always do for you. 

    Also enclosed, you will find a photograph of the "Portrait of Achille de Gas",  (should you not have seen the original, I certainly would not send this print, which is so very unsatisfactory, and gives little idea of the painting.), which I hope you will decide to purchase, as it is truly of exceptional quality, and at the new figure I quoted you, so very reasonably priced. 

    You will recall, I am asking $5,800 for this exquisite work, but  told you that you could purchase it for $4,500. Achille de Gas was a brother of the artist, and this painting was inherited by another brother, Rene de Gas, in the sale of whose collection it was included. 

    Now, I have given considerable thought to your very kind proposition as regards the Toledo Museum, in connection with your TITIAN. Though it might be better to speak to Mr. Godwin, instead of writing, (I may not have such an opportunity for quite some time, and even then the occasion might not be right for the broaching of the subject), and therefore I am suggesting a letter. You will see it is a mere draft, and can be corrected in any way you would prefer. It is especially worded in such a manner that, should be interested, he will perhaps fear that I any anew approach the Kress Foundation. 

    However, I repeat, I shall not mail this note until I have your O.K. and am therefore looking forward to hearing from you on the topic. 

    In order to make you feel completely at ease, it is well understood that in view of your having given me this business opportunity, the 5% (five percent) commission you are willing to allow, should this particular deal go through, will apply only until January 1st., 1949.

    With kind regards, 

             Sincerely, 
                 ^[[GS]]
                  (Germain Seligman)

Arthur Sachs, Esq. 
600 East Valley Road
Santa Barbara, California