Letter from Anna Lee Smyth to James McBey (Letters and Memorabilia Belonging to James McBey)
RecipientReceived by
James McBey
(Newburgh, Scotland, 1883 - 1959)
SenderSent by
Anna Lee Smyth
AssociatedAssociated with
Frances Gripper
Date1929
Object NameLetter
Mediumpaper and ink
ClassificationsMcBey
DimensionsLetter: 22.7 x 17.7cm
Envelope: 9.6 x 12.1cm
Envelope: 9.6 x 12.1cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1988 by Mrs Marguerite McBey.
Copyright© Aberdeen City Council (McBey Collection)
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDAG008357.40
Keywords
McBey began a relationship with Frances Gripper in September 1928, and she became his model, muse and lover, in April 1929 McBey proposed to Frances, but she did not accept, and instead returned to America to marry her fiance Robert. In the letter Anna tells McBey about meeting Robert at the boat, and describes the situation as being "rather difficult", she had urged Frances to write to her afterwards to "blow off steam" about it. Anna tells McBey that Robert was nice, but both Frances and herself wished it had been McBey visiting them.
The rest of the letter talks about Anna's trip to Hye, Texas, where she tells McBey that Frances only saw Charlie while she was there. Anna explains that she spent most of her time with Frances, but because it was so hot, they did not do much travelling. One day when they did go for a walk though, Anna saw one of McBey's etchings in a gallery window.
A newspaper clipping was initially included with the letter, which Anna describes, before telling McBey that she will write again as soon as she had a permanent address, which, for the moment, would likely be in Hye. Anna signs the letter, "affectionately - Ann (Anna Lee)."
This object is part of an archive that belonged to Marguerite McBey. As a result of her generosity, Aberdeen Art Gallery holds the largest archive of James McBey's work, including prints, drawings, sketchbooks, oil paintings and memorabilia such as this letter.
