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RS/M

January 24th, 1936.

Dear Dr. Valentiner,

I spoke to my friend, Mr. Untermeyer's nephew, who tells me that he cannot get any authorization to get the Rubens from the sons. He has written to Mr. Samuel Untermeyer, who is in California. As this gentleman is 78 years old, my friend thinks that it is probably better not to count on the picture. However, I am doing my best to get it.

The CUYP, photograph of which I sent you, came from the Kleinberger Galleries, who acquired it from a client to whom Knoedler had sold it some 15 years ago. Mr. Sperling is writing you directly to remind you of the fact that you saw the picture two years ago. I am asking you as a personal favor if the information which Mr. Sperling will write you is satisfactory and that you can give me your opinion that the picture is an early Cuyp, to let me have your expertization at your earliest convenience because the picture is at one of my client's homes, the client waiting for you certificate to decide on it.

I appreciate what you will be kind enough to do for me, and with my kindest regards, 

Please believe me to be

Yours sincerely,

(Rene Seligmann)

Dr. W. R. Valentiner,
Detroit Institute of Arts,
DETROIT - MICHIGAN