émile Zola - Autograph Letter Signed - 1887 - Large Signature

Autograph letter signed by Émile Zola (1840-1902).

November 8, 1887, Médan. One page, octavo.

Traces of creases. Size: 20.5 x 13 cm.

Fine signature.

Letter written a few days before the publication of "La Terre" (The Earth). "La Terre" was published on November 15, 1887, by the publisher Charpentier. Every year, Zola transferred his subscriptions from Médan to Paris as winter approached, and from Paris back to Médan, where he would return with the arrival of spring. Published from 1884, "L'Écho de Paris" was a daily newspaper with a rather conservative and patriotic slant.

The Zolas lived at 23 rue Ballu, near Place de Clichy in the 9th arrondissement, for 12 years, from 1877 to 1889, before moving into their last Parisian apartment on rue de Bruxelles. Médan, November 8, 1887. Dear Sir, I am returning to Paris, and you would be so kind as to send me "L'Écho de Paris" to 23 rue Ballu, starting with the issue that will be published Thursday evening, November 10. Thank you a thousand times and yours sincerely. Émile Zola.

On 23 rue Ballu (source: nonomnismoriar.eu):

"This building at 23 rue Ballu, certainly the most beautiful on rue Ballu, is located in the "New Athens" district, prized by the artistic and intellectual elite during the 19th century. It combines a classical style with a slight Art Nouveau touch, in the wooden door, the balcony above, and the oval stained-glass window above the second door. The building notably housed Émile Zola and Edgar Degas.