Monet, Claude

Autograph letter signed, 4 pages (7 x 4 1/2 in.; 178 x 114 mm) on black-edged mourning paper, Giverny, 22 February 1899, to an unidentified recipient; horizontal fold — Autograph letter signed, 1 1/2 pages (8 1/4 x 5 1/4 in.; 210 x 133 mm), Giverny, 13 ?October 1910, to an unidentified recipient; horizontal fold, 2 small glue stains on terminal blank.

Autograph letter signed, 4 pages (7 x 4 1/2 in.; 178 x 114 mm) on black-edged mourning paper, Giverny, 22 February 1899, to an unidentified recipient; horizontal fold — Autograph letter signed, 1 1/2 pages (8 1/4 x 5 1/4 in.; 210 x 133 mm), Giverny, 13 ?October 1910, to an unidentified recipient; horizontal fold, 2 small glue stains on terminal blank.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Two fine letters with bold signatures, written a decade apart.  It is interesting to see the dramatic change in Monet's handwriting between 1899 and 1910, as it changes from a firm cursive hand to a rather more tenuous form of block printing.  The 1899 letter discusses a photograph the recipient has sent to the painter.  The later letter expresses thanks for fond remembrances.