[Hollywood] Lang, Fritz. (1890 - 1976)
Interesting Letter to Arthur Kaufmann
A rare signed letter from the prolific director of "Metropolis," "M," etc., best known for his cinematic visions of a world largely populated by criminals, psychopaths, prostitutes, and other maladjusted personalities. Scarce TLS, one page, 8.5 x 11, February 13, 1939. Addressed to Arthur Kaufmann (1888 - 1971) the influential avante-garde German painter, who was a key figure in the Post-Expressionist and New Objectivity art movements. Jewish in origin, Kaufmann was labeled "non-Aryan" by the Nazis in 1933 and relocated to the United States, embarking upon a career as a celebrated portrait painter. He specialized in depictions of well-known Jewish men, including such diverse luminaries as Hollywood actor Edward G. Robinson, physicist Albert Einstein, and composer and painter George Gershwin (whose affidavit was responsible for Kaufmann's safe departure from Germany). His portrait of Gershwin is now held by the National Portrait Gallery at the Smithsonian Institution.In the present letter, Lang apologizes for having been away from Hollywood and for only having now received his letter. He says that he would be pleased to sit for him for a group portrait he is undertaking and proposes times for the sitting and sends his Santa Monica address. An autograph postscript gives precise directions to Lang's house! (4627)
TLS Film