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January 19, 1957

Dear Mr. Richardson:

I am taking the liberty of sending you herein a photograph of a Crucifix by Francesco di Vannuccio of Sienna (1361-1388),* recently purchased from my firm by Dr. Bob Jones for the Museum of the Bob Jones University, and I am wondering whether you could feature it in one of the coming ART QUARTERLY copies. It would, I know, please considerably Dr. Bob Jones, and I would of course personally feel very happy about it in view of the exceptional merit of this painting - its physical importance - 6'5" x 5'6", and its remarkable state of preservation.

As you well know, there are few works of this early period with so dramatic a representation in our museums. Furthermore, it is my feeling that the splendid efforts and achievements of Dr. Bob Jones are far from having received the recognition they deserve, and thus publicizing one of the most important purchases he has made would encourage those who might be willing to help him in his endeavors.

Should there be any expenses such a reproduction would entail, do not hesitate to let me know. I should add that if it were contrary to the ART QUARTRTLY'S policy to mention my firm's name in connection with such a purchase, do leave it out.

Trusting I may hear from you that this will be possible, and thanking you in advance for your kind answer, and with personal regards,

Sincerely yours,

Germain Seligman

* It came from the Richard Mortimer Collection, Tuxedo Park, New York, and was published in "Art In American" April, 1932, in an article by Dr. Richard Offner: "The Works And Style of Francesco di Vannuccio".

Mr. E. P. Richardson, Director
The Detroit Institute of Arts
5200 Woodward Avenue
Detroit, Michigan

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