CHAMPFLEURY (Jules Husson, dit) (1821-1889) - Lot 303

CHAMPFLEURY (Jules Husson, dit) (1821-1889) Writer, art critic, historian of caricature and ardent defender of realism. Courbet's friend, Baudelaire's correspondent and an important figure in Second Empire literary life. L.A.S. "Champfleury", Paris, May 1, 1880, 1 page in-8 on letterhead of Librairie d'Art Ludovic Baschet, addressed to an unidentified correspondent. Interesting autograph letter concerning editing and proofreading work. Champfleury writes: "I was going to send you back corrected proofs." He specifies that he has made several changes to the text: "So there are two mistakes or modifications that I want to make." and asks his correspondent to ensure that these corrections are incorporated into the final print run: "...you will send me back the proofs duly corrected so that we can agree on the matter." This short letter offers a concrete insight into Champfleury's editorial work at the end of his career, when he was already recognized as one of the leading theorists of French literary realism. It bears witness to his meticulous attention to the preparation and publication of his texts. The interest of the document is enhanced by the remarkable letterhead of Librairie d'Art Ludovic Baschet, presenting several contemporary art publications, including works devoted to Gustave Doré, the 1878 Universal Exhibition and the Galerie contemporaine. Fine autograph signature by Champfleury. A fine testimony to authorship and book production in the late 19th century. Condition: a few folds and light foxing; good overall condition; very decorative, well-preserved header.