Description

 

 

Beckett, Samuel (1906 – 1989)

A wonderful 1958 autograph postcard signed by Suzanne Dechevaux-Dumesnil (‘Suzanne’), lover and later wife of Samuel Beckett. Additionally signed by Beckett himself (‘Sam’) and the actor Jean Martin.

Dechevaux-Dumesnil writes to Monique Haas from Belgrade (postmarked 10th July 1958). In full, ‘This is our room. Jean Martin’s is not far away. We are fine, it’s very hot. I love the people, but above all I love Belgrade. If I’d known where you performed, I would have saluted the place. We saw the little theatre where we played Godot. I embrace you very affectionately, Suzanne’. Becketts adds, ‘me too, Sam’. Then signed by Jean Martin. To the photograph side, Dechevaux-Dumesnil has circled the room referred to in her card.

A very interesting association piece that ties Beckett to to individuals who were intimately involved in his most famous work. Beckett’s Waiting for Godot is thought to have been inspired by a long walk he took into Roussillon with his wife, Suzanne, when the two of them slept in haystacks; Jean Martin played the role of Lucky in the first production of Waiting for Godot in Paris in 1953. The Belgrade production referred to in this postcard took place in 1954. As the play was considered by many to be deeply provocative, the production at the Belgrade Drama Theatre took place in relative secrecy for fear of a public outcry.

In very fine condition.