Gershwin, George. (1898–1937) Signed Letter vouching for the painter Arthur Kaufman, fleeing Nazi Germany

Gershwin, George. (1898–1937)

Signed Letter vouching for the painter Arthur Kaufman, fleeing Nazi Germany

“I consider him a first rate artist and would like to see him come to America to stay.”

TLS, one page, 8.25 x 10.75, personal letterhead, June 10, 1936. A notarized letter submitted to US consulate in Rotterdam, vouching for the painter Arthur Kaufman whose portrait of Gershwin is in the Smithsonian Portrait Gallery. In full: “My friend, Mr. Arthur Kaufman [sic], is anxious to obtain a permanent visa for the United States. I consider him a first rate artist and would like to see him come to America to stay. I will be glad to assume financial responsibility in case of need. Thanking you for any consideration you may extend Mr. Kaufman.” Central vertical and horizontal folds with tiny edge separations, scattered creases, and an official stamp at the top, otherwise fine condition.

Of German-Jewish origin, Kaufman had been labeled ‘degenerate’ by the Nazis in 1933 and released from his position at the Dusseldorf School of Applied Arts. He then fled to the Netherlands before relocating to America, where he became a celebrated portrait painter. His oeuvre includes a 1936 oil painting of Gershwin, today held by the Smithsonian Institution’s National Portrait Gallery. A photograph of the painting is included with the letter. (11656)

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