By the end of 1938, Le Corbusier was exhausted and tired

Le Corbusier (i. e. Charles Edouard Jeanneret), architect (1887-1965).

Autograph letter signed to Marguerite Tjader Harris, in French.

Paris, 22 December 1938 (date of postmark).

21 x 13,5 cm. 3 pages written on the recto and verso of a single folded sheet, includes original envelope.

EUR 1500

The relationship between Le Corbusier and the American author and publisher Marguerite Tjader Harris (1901–1986) was a deep and long-standing one that unfolded largely through correspondence. The relationship between Le Corbusier and Marguerite Tjader Harris spanned some thirty years. Between intimacy and distance: Biographers (such as Nicholas Fox Weber) describe the relationship as a predominantly epistolary (correspondence-based) affair, characterised by deep affection and emotional dependence. The tone of Le Corbusier’s messages ranged from tender and passionate to imploring.

Around 1980, some of these highly personal letters were acquired through the antiquarian book trade (such as Serendipity Books), thereby finally making them accessible to researchers. A large proportion are now held in the Canadian Centre for Architecture (CCA). A few found their way into private collections.

A very personal letter; Le Corbusier is exhausted and weary after the eventful year of 1938 and misses his close confidante, Marguerite Tjader Harris

„Dear friend: I came back from Rio de Janeiro yesterday, and I am leaving tomorrow morning for the seaside to get some rest after an exhausting year. I phoned you twice, but I couldn’t reach you, and I am sorry for that. Your presence in Paris seems like a door that was suddenly opened which looks out onto Connecticut! It is always like this: do you think we can one day work it out? Are you happy, pleased, satisfied? I hope you are. I am sure that things can be that way. Would you tell M… that I won’t be in Roma at the date that I gave him? Our meeting has turned into a travelling meeting across Italy. My schedule is very hectic. I am not even sure I am going there. I might have to be somewhere else at that time. I’ve received a letter from Takoma (Washington) asking me if I accept to urbanize an area there. The offer is tempting, but I have to find the time to go there… Well, well. Everything is mixed up nowadays: latitudes, climats [?], hemispheres, politics. I’ve become a poor person, always in the rush, always exhausted. So long. It was kind of you to say hello. Thank you with all my heart. Give my regards to May. Sincerely Yours“

Provenance: Acquired by the previous owner from the New York autograph dealer ‘David Schulson Autographs’.

Light wear, folds.