A small group of items signed by three important nineteenth- and twentieth-century artists and musicians: Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, Maxfield Parrish, and Paul Robeson. The items include an autograph letter signed, an autographed album page, and a signed newspaper clipping, ca. 1884 - 1940s. Expected wear consistent with age, else near fine. The largest item relating to Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema measures 9.5" x 12."

The lot features, in chronological order:

1. A 2pp autograph letter signed by Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema (1836-1912), the Dutch-born naturalized British painter, as "L Alma Tadema" on the second page near the bottom. Dated October 4, 1884 and inscribed on bifold stationery with the address "Townshend House, / North Gate, / Regents Park. N.W." embossed in red at the letterhead. The letter is hinged to a blue paper mount. Expected folds and weathering, else near fine. The letter measures 7.75" x 6.25," while the paper mount measures 9.375" x 11.5." Accompanied by a period magazine photo of Alma-Tadema, and an autograph collecting folder.

Alma-Tadema wrote to an American collector from St. Louis, Missouri named J.A. Coule, in part:

"I have now a picture in Wat. Col. ready which I am going to exhibit in the Scottish Water Colour Soc. in Glasgow & of which I can give you the refusal if agreeable to you. The size is 18 x 8 1/2 inch, two figures on a seat in full sunshine etc. If required I could send you a photograph of it. The composition could be an interior if desired & would be delivered by Aug. next year. The price is to be £1000 each. The Glasgow Exh. opens on the 17th inst. & closes I believe the end of November. Looking forward to an answer…"

The Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolours, as it is now called, had been established in 1876 in Glasgow, Scotland to promote watercolor art and artists.

2. A blank piece of paper, probably an autograph album page, pencil signed by illustrator Maxfield Parrish (1870-1966), as "Maxfield Parrish:." Minor uneven toning, else near fine. Blank verso. 5.25" x 7.75."

3. A vintage newspaper clipping of Paul Robeson (1898-1976), the famous bass-baritone concert singer, advertising his new patriotic song, "Ballad for Americans," boldly signed by Robeson in teal pen as "Paul Robeson" at lower right. N.d. but probably ca. late 1930s or early 1940s. Light toning. The clipping is laid down onto paper measuring approximately the same size. Near fine. Overall measures 2.125" x 4.5."

"The Ballad for Americans," also known as "The Ballad for Uncle Sam," was an epic patriotic anthem initially performed by Paul Robeson on the radio in November 1939. The song celebrates American history from the Revolutionary War through the Civil War and applauds the tolerance and diversity of the modern-day American people.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

WE PROVIDE IN-HOUSE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE!