Jun 12 at 12:00 PM - Sale 2708 -
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Sale 2708 - Lot 28

Estimate: $ 800 - $ 1,200
(ART.) Papers of artist Leon Kroll. Several hundred items (0.7 linear feet) in one box; condition varies, with the retained carbons of his correspondence often brittle and worn. Various places, 1910-1953, bulk 1949-1953
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Additional Details

The artist Leon Kroll (1884-1974) was born and raised in Manhattan and resided in Gloucester, MA in his later years. He was known for painting still lifes, nudes, and landscapes, and also undertook several public art commissions.

Much of this collection consists of Kroll's correspondence file from 1949 to 1953, including many retained drafts of his outgoing letters. Correspondents include critics, curators, arts administrators, family members, and customers. Represented here with signed letters are notable artists Clare Leighton, Carl Sprinchorn, Carlos Lopez, John Taylor Arms, Arthur Crisp, Xavier Gonzalez, Raphael Soyer, Theo Hois, Louis di Valentin, Joseph Meert, Aaron Bohrod, John McCrady, Harry Wickey, Maurice Sterne, George Biddle, Theodoros Stamos, Chaim Gross, and Everett Shinn, as well as critic Van Wyck Brooks, curator Helen Appleton Read, and performer Dorshka Raphaelson. Swann favorite Jacob Lawrence wrote a short note on 10 March 1953 to thank Kroll for his role in securing an Institute of Arts and Letters grant. Kroll also corresponded with the American Academy of Arts and Letters, Artists Equity, and the National Academy of Design.

Kroll devoted considerable energy to defending himself against insinuations of Communist leanings during the height of the Red Scare, 1949-1953. Included are several long explanations of his political beliefs, a long 24 December 1950 letter to FBI head J. Edgar Hoover, and a short signed response from Hoover dated 6 January 1951.

Also included are Kroll's disbound personal ledger, 1910-1950; numerous notes for lectures Kroll delivered; several versions of his will; 8 photographs including a casual portrait of Kroll; 12 slips of paper with roughly sketched unsigned figures and doodles; and much more.

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