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a letter written in blue ink on a piece of papera handwritten letter from person to his mothera letter from the president of the united states to his motheran old letter and envelope with a handwritten message on itan open book with a picture of a woman on itan old book with a picture of a woman on itseveral old black and white photos of people walking down a street
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Estimate €2,000 - €3,000
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Description
PIAF (Édith) Two signed autograph letters to Marianne Michel. Two charming autograph signed letters bearing witness to the professional, but above all friendly, relationship between Édith Piaf and Marianne Michel, and in particular to Piaf’s help in furthering her friend’s career. Édith Piaf wrote *La Vie en rose* for Marianne Michel, who was the very first to perform it on stage in 1945. Marianne Michel suggested replacing ‘des trucs en rose’ with ‘la vie en rose’, thus giving its title to one of the most iconic French songs.   – Letter regarding Marianne Michel’s introduction to Édith Piaf’s record label. Paris, 12 January 1944. 2 pp. in-12 oblong (10.2 x 16.4 cm), envelope. Édith Piaf apologises for writing and sending her best wishes so late ‘but they are no less heartfelt’. She informs her friend: ‘ I’ve already spoken to my record label about you and they’re expecting you!” and expresses her affection and her hope that she will become “the sort of friend one meets only very rarely”. Édith Piaf shows her deep attachment and her desire to support her friend professionally: ‘I’m going to give you back your freedom and I’m going to – “if you don’t mind” – give you a kiss because I feel like it.’ – Letter regarding Marianne Michel’s visit to Paris. Paris, 25 January 1944. 2 pp. in-4 (27.2 x 20.9 cm). Édith Piaf responds to her friend’s letter, in which she takes offence at people’s malice and shares her own experience: “I’ve come across quite a few of them myself along the way, but I’ve just carried on straight ahead without paying them any mind, and I was right to do so; it’s so funny to see them all sticking their tongues out – I get my revenge without lifting a finger, and that’s the best way.” She shares her enthusiasm for bringing her friend to Paris and offering her a proper singing career: “You’ll have excellent songwriters and composers working for you, and they won’t charge you a penny. […] Come to Paris soon so we can get to know each other better and then do some beautiful, good work.” Included is a press book compiled by Marianne Michel or her press officer, featuring numerous press articles dating from the 1930s to the 1950s. It is supplemented by song booklets (with sheet music): *Paname*, *La Vie en rose*, *Un refrain très doux*, *Si bien*, *Valse de l’amour*, etc. Finally, original photographs and family documents complete the file.   A very interesting collection of archives, articles and photographs spanning her years in Marseille, her time at the Cabaret Musiques légères during the Second World War, and her career as a singer in France and abroad.
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About the sale Books, Manuscripts & Antique Engravings, including the José Luis Dotti Library
Auction location
Auction time 09/23/2026 at 2:30 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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