Lot 218
TOKLAS, Alice B. (1877-1967). Autograph note signed (“A.B.T.”). Chicago, n.d, late 1934-early 1935. 1 page, 8vo, visible area 230 x 144 mm, on Drake Hotel stationary, light creasing, matted and framed with a photographic portrait of Alice B. Toklas and Gertrude Stein after an image by Carl Van Vechten, unexamined out of frame.
Estimate
$400 - $600

Sold for $625

Sold prices are inclusive of Buyer’s Premium
Lot Description
TOKLAS, Alice B. (1877-1967). Autograph note signed (“A.B.T.”). Chicago, n.d, late 1934-early 1935. 1 page, 8vo, visible area 230 x 144 mm, on Drake Hotel stationary, light creasing, matted and framed with a photographic portrait of Alice B. Toklas and Gertrude Stein after an image by Carl Van Vechten, unexamined out of frame.

“If you leave the books at the desk of the hotel wrapped and addressed to Miss Gertrude Stein she will sign them. Enclose a label with your name please and call for them two days later.” 
 
In October 1934, Stein and Toklas arrived in the United States after a 30-year absence for a 6-month book tour, the last time either would visit their country of birth. They were known to have visited Chicago and stayed at the Drake Hotel in late November and early December 1934. While there, Stein gave a lecture at the Friday Club, a women’s literary society, and they took the opportunity to see the Chicago premiere of Four Saints in Three Acts, for which Stein had written the libretto. This marked the first time they had seen the opera with music by Virgil Thomson, revolutionary in form and content, the work was groundbreaking for its all-black cast with the singers directed by the prominent African American choral director Eva Jessye (1895-1992). 

Condition Report

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Hindman staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Hindman website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Hindman.

Please email conditionreports@hindmanauctions.com for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.