Early 1990s

Sergei Pavlovich Diaghilev
Diaghilev Signed Calling Card
Russia

Twelve lines in French concerning the placement of an article in Le Figaro and other matters of business. Russian art critic

Diaghilev was the founder and director of the Ballets Russes, overseeing its productions and collaborations with many of the leading composers, choreographers, dancers, and artists of the early 20th century.

DIAGHILEV, Sergei Pavlovich (1872-1929). Autograph note signed ("X"). N.p., n.d. 2 pages on one card, 55 x 95 mm sheet (6.5 x 8 inches framed), graphite on a calling card engraved with "Serge de Diaghilew," a punched hole affecting text and slight toning, matted and framed (glazed on both sides), not examined out of frame.

Provenance: Collection of Michael Tilson Thomas

I kept this all these years thinking it would be important one day in the future. I keep it wrapped up in saran wrap because one of my cats peed on it at some point in the past, and I didn't notice for a long time. It's been so long ago that it no longer smells of cat urine lol. I have no idea if it will ever be important, but I'll keep it just in case. My kids know that whenever I pass away, they must keep it for future generations. Hope you enjoy.

Super fun find. Chiyo Kichi graduated Purdue in 1897 with a mechanical engineering degree. Quite rare that it’s all handwritten rather than a filled out mass printed booklet. Spencerian cursive is so pretty here too! Also found it interesting that the phrenologist was an international student from Tokyo. I’m curious if I should sell this to a dealer (I posted it for $650 and received a $400 offer same day) or do something else. Curious if anyone has any cool info on this museum quality piece.