Le Corbusier and the ASCORAL Project

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

Autograph letter signed to Marie-Anne Febvre discussing ASCORAL projects and his wish to include her in the work, in French.

Paris, 16 August (19)43.

27,2 x 21 cm. 2 pages, written in the recto and verso of a single sheet bearing the letterhead of the magazine *L’ Esprit Nouveau*. Includes original envelope.

sold

In his introduction, Le Corbusier comments on the letterhead on which he wrote his letter:  „Don’t be taken in by this headed notepaper; it’s an old banner and an old flag: 1919-1925, already 20 to 25 years old“.

In 1943, occupied France was at a stage where visionaries and intellectuals were already planning the post-war order, either in secret or within semi-official circles. In this context, the ASCORAL project (Assemblée de Constructeurs pour une Rénovation Architecturale) played a central role. The group’s aim was to develop, in the midst of the war, the theoretical foundations for the massive reconstruction of France following the Liberation. The intention was to move away from mere ‘brick-by-brick’ reconstruction and towards a radical, functional modernism. During this phase, Marie-Anne Febvre acted as a key liaison for Le Corbusier, particularly in the areas of documentation, communication and editorial work.

Febvre had close ties with Jean Bossu and the circles associated with the specialist journal *L’Architecture d’aujourd’hui*. This journal formed the logistical and publishing backbone of ASCORAL

Translation of the letter written in French: „Dear Madam, Don’t be taken in by this headed notepaper; it’s an old banner and an old flag: 1919-1925, already 20 to 25 years old. I read with great interest your letter of 11 August. You have a very clear appreciation of the things which concern us. And you even want to … with the reality of …. Why not, one day. Indeed, most certainly. Meanwhile, ASCORAL going full speed and with enthusiasm, I will ask Bredin(?), the director of our studies of section 3a (domestic equipment) to ask you to take part in his work. You can write, and even sketch, in truth schemes and situations, giving us the benefit of the liveliness of your reactions in this area. Then, when you are in Paris, and if you are still alive, we will certainly find a way of occupying your free time. My wife who thanks you for the interest you have shown in her health, unfortunately still troublesome, will be glad to see you at the house. Could you have send to me against payment Michael Marc’s paper. I am preparing for Ascoral a study of studios and offices which far from being underground, have as their first objective to put men into the “natural condition”. I do not receive the works of André Belleyercs although he has written to me today that he sends them regularly. However I read the reply Aux Lumières which was disgraceful, erroneous and based on completely false information (USA) Would you also be kind enough to give me the exact reference of “What do I know” “The Creative Life of Rocks” (Have I read this correctly?) Don’t hesitate to inform me of all kinds of situations. 11 sections of Ascoral are being worked on. I have eleven meetings in a fortnight which recur twice a month (total 22 a month) But I can see the light and our work will be magnificent. It is a limitless team, composed to grow and extend itself like a plant; unity of mind but in total variety of age and discipline. With my best wishes, Le Cobusier As for Champignonne, he never replied. Your friend Mlle Lyon left us some lentils; we are waiting for a bill from you please. The clerk at Andierne made a return properly, I paid, wrote receipted…since then silence (for at least two months.)“

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

Small tear to the upper left corner, creased at folds.