[Fournier, Pierre. (1906–1986)] Richter, Sviatoslav. (1915–1997) Autograph Postcard to Pierre Fournier and his family

[Fournier, Pierre. (1906–1986)] Richter, Sviatoslav. (1915–1997)

Autograph Postcard to Pierre Fournier and his family

New Year's postcard from the outstanding Soviet pianist born to mostly German parents in what is now Ukraine, addressed to the family of the equally outstanding French cellist. In Russian. Moscow, December 14, 1969 (date of postmark). Postcard with print of Velazquez painting to verso. In full: "Dear Lyda, Pierre and Jean-Pierre! We cordially congratulate you on New Year's Day and wish you good health, joy and luck. Yours Nina and Slava." With original autograph envelope addressed to "Madame P. Fournier" in Geneva. 6 x 4 inches (15.5 x 10 cm). Remnant of envelope to verso of card; else in fine condition.

Richter and Fournier had performed together in Tours, France, on July 3, 1969. A recording of the Fantasiestücke, op. 73, by Robert Schumann, from that recital is extant and commercially available. "Nina" is the Russian soprano Nina Dorliak (1908–1998), Richter's companion from 1946. It is widely believed that their marriage was a marriage of convenience, and some have even disputed that they were married at all, but they always traveled together. (22405)

Autograph Letter Classical Music