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5 East 57th Street New York, May 5th., 1947 Dear F-G: Answering your note of April 28th., I want to let you know that I have never received, either directly or through you, an inquiry from Count Van der Straten, as I would have been only too pleased to answer him. His FRAGONARD representing "Le Lavandieres" I understand was purchased by the Metropolitan Museum for a comparatively small price, but I would be indeed interested to know whether he owns any others which he would be willing to part with - we could, I feel, sell them. Will you, therefore, communicate directly with him, posting him about the above, and do let me have his address. Now, as regards works of art of an early period, there is very little here which would fit your description, as even the marble group you refer to, lovely as it is, is not of such merit, and, furthermore, it is not available at present, as just for this reason I am trying to work out some sort of exchange with it. However, I am sending you herein a photograph of a small wooden statue, early 12th Century, which, in my opinion, has tremendous character and is, of course, extremely rare. As usual the photograph gives very little idea of its quality. If I think of anything else I will post you further. On the other hand, you have probably heard that Joseph Brummer died a little while ago. He owned, should we say a mine, I am told, of fantastic works of art of this very early period. I know nothing of the dispositions which will be taken, and off hand do not like the idea of going there, but should it really be a question of some very important business I would overlook my personal feelings. Much love, Mr. Francois Gerard Seligmann 23 Place Vendome Paris France P.S. Talking about early periods, I am in the process of writing Stoclet, and I am wondering whether you have been in touch with him, as otherwise I would write to him to visit you, explaining the new business set-up. ^[[stylized signature]]
