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ONLINECOLLECTION

Letter from Emmy Obransky to Marie Schiele, 10th Nov. 1918

Leopold Museum,
Vienna
Leopold Museum,
Vienna
Ink on paper
18×11.3 cm

Artists

  • Marie Schiele

    (Krumau 1862–1935 Vienna)

  • Emmy Obransky
Unfortunately not on display at the moment

Translation of the Transcription:

10th Nov.1918.
Dear Madam!
For now, my abject poverty impels me to give up your friendship, even though it makes me happy and I have only just won it – until the day that I can face you again as a famous and popular artist. My struggle is tough and bitter, since I am left to my own devices, without any help.

I will either achieve what your son achieved or end my sad existence. – – – – – – – Your noble son, my beloved Egon [Schiele] wanted to support me in achieving my goals as an artist, he promised me as much, because he loved me just as devoutly as I loved him. Cruel fate had other plans and all that remained for me was his dear grave, where I will always find solace and courage.

Because, apart from my art, he was dez. [?] dearest to me in all the world. – – – – – –My first major musical work will be named after your beloved son. – – – – I would be very happy to own the drawings that Egon wanted to give me.
Only you, Madam, can decide whether my heart’s wish will be granted. – – Forgive me, Madam, for not visiting you any more, as much as it pains me – you will see me only once I’ve become a renowned composer. I will send you Egon’s picture as soon as I have another one. I implore you not to forget me and ask the same of your daughter, I hope we will become good friends later on. My most heartfelt regards to you, dear Madam, and to Miss Mella [Melanie Schiele],
respectfully, your miserable Emmy Obransky

Dear Miss Mella, please follow your immortal brother’s example in pursuing the art of painting. Do!
Goodbye.
Emmy

Object data

Artist/author
  • Recipient: Marie Schiele
  • Sender: Emmy Obransky
Title
Letter from Emmy Obransky to Marie Schiele
Date
10th Nov. 1918
Category
Autograph
Material​/technique
Ink on paper
Dimensions
18×11.3 cm
Credit line
Leopold Museum, Vienna, Inv. 7666 01
Inventory access
Accession 2023
Catalogue raisonne
  • ESDA ID 2830
Keywords
Egon Schiele
Autograph Database

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Provenance

Provenance research
Leopold Museum i

Privatsammlung Leopold, Wien; (1)
Leopold Museum-Privatstiftung, Wien (2023)

  1. Archiv des Leopold Museums, Rechnung Nr. 01-2023 vom 18.04.2023

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