Large archive of the artist Leo Blake (American, 1887-1976) including letters and receipts relating to his career, sketches, and photographs. Included are thirteen (13) pen and ink or pencil and ink drawings of various subjects including farm scenes, logging scenes, and harbor scenes, in sizes range from 6" H x 8" W to 9 1/2" H x 12" W. Also included is one (1) 10" H x 12" W gouache on paper painting of the Chicago skyline. The bulk of the archive is comprised of invoices for art supplies dated 1941-1959, including correspondence from patrons, galleries, and other business contacts. There is also one (1) file of student rosters labeled 1952-1956 from Blake's work as an art teacher; one (1) sheet of "seals" from the Capper Foundation for Crippled Children which used one of Blake's paintings for its design (related correspondence is included); postcards and greeting made from Blake paintings (many with personal correspondence); about thirty-six (36) black and white photographs of Blake paintings; eight (8) candid photographs likely used as the basis for Blake paintings; a photograph of the artist and his wife "taken by Dave... July 11, 1965"; and two (2) small albums containing black and white images of Blake paintings, labeled "Return to Blake Studios Berkshire Massachusetts." Provenance: the estate of Earl and Annette Bruhn of Chicago, close friends of the late artist. Two oil paintings and a watercolor by Blake from the same estate are also being sold in this auction. Artist biography: Leo B. Blake studied at the Art Institute of Chicago from 1908-1912, and began his career in illustration and commercial art. In 1933, he relocated to New England and set up a studio in the Berkshires, where he focused on painting landscapes and taught classes, including at Williams College (1937-1941) and the Berkshire Museum (1943-1953). Blake was a member of numerous organizations including the Pittsfield Art League (where he served as president), the North Shore Arts Association, the Illinois Academy of Fine Arts, and the American Artists Professional League. He exhibited at the Art Institute of Chicago, the Connecticut Academy of Fine Arts, the Salmagundi Club, and the Berkshire Museum.

All items in overall very good condition with expected toning, minor wear.