Correspondence 1932-1945

In January 1931, Leonor Fini, who had been in Paris for a few months, met André Pieyre de Mandiargues in a café. Quickly, she embarked on a liaison with him that would evolve into a long and profound friendship. Separated by the circumstances and the context of a troubled Europe, they would write to each other. It is the majority of this exchange, carried out over twenty years, that is presented here for the first time. Written in a strange Franco-Italian jargon, seasoned with barbs and caricatures, this correspondence summons in turn the most famous artists and friends of the couple at the time, from Éluard to Dali, from Chirico to Cartier-Bresson, from Picasso to Savinio. It also offers a fascinating glimpse into the literary and artistic circles of this period (particularly during a delightful stay in New York by Leonor), as well as the chronicle of a loving friendship between two personalities distinguished by their admirable freedom of life and thought.

The correspondence provides a unique insight into the relationship between Leonor Fini and André Pieyre de Mandiargues, two individuals who shared a deep and lasting bond despite the upheaval of the time. Their letters, written in a blend of French and Italian, offer a window into the vibrant artistic and literary circles they inhabited, with references to renowned figures such as Éluard, Dali, Chirico, Cartier-Bresson, Picasso, and Savinio.

The correspondence not only chronicles the evolution of Fini and Mandiargues' friendship but also offers a captivating glimpse into the cultural landscape of the era. Their stay in New York, for instance, is described in vivid detail, providing readers with a fascinating perspective on the artistic milieu of the time.

Ultimately, this collection of letters, presented here for the first time, serves as a testament to the remarkable freedom of thought and life that characterized Fini and Mandiargues' relationship. Their unwavering bond, forged in the face of a troubled Europe, stands as a poignant reminder of the power of human connection to transcend the challenges of the world.

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