Original Photograph of J.R.R. Tolkien Signed to Patrick Hunt, with Signed Letter

A well-known Billett Potter portrait of J.R.R. Tolkien, signed and dedicated to Patrick Hunt, together with a signed letter.

Original photograph of J.R.R. Tolkien signed and dedicated to Patrick Hunt.
Together with autographed handwritten letter by J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Hunt.
Comes with original envelope.

This well-known portrait is attributed in our original catalogue to Billett Potter. The date of the portrait sitting itself is unconfirmed. Our original description records its use in Tolkien calendars, including the 1974 calendar, and in books.

It comes with Tolkien's signed handwritten letter to Mr. Hunt, dated 25 January 1973, and the original mailing envelope. The envelope is addressed to Hunt at H.M. Prison, Ranby; no inference about his circumstances is made here.

In the letter Tolkien writes "It is most encouraging (to an author) to learn that his books have given pleasure and encouragement." and "I have had v. dark days of my own in my time, and I do hope that yours will soon now be over."

According to Hunt's daughter, the letter and photograph were among his most treasured possessions, and he enthusiastically introduced his children to The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

There is light age toning, ink smudging on the portrait's lower margin and across part of the recipient's name on its reverse, and an additional dated notation at the upper left of the letter, not attributed here to Tolkien. The envelope is creased and torn at its right edge.

A personal pairing of Tolkien's signed portrait and a warmly sympathetic handwritten letter, preserved with its original envelope.


Digital photos available, inquire if interested.

Other Tolkien books available, include both the UK and US editions, original cloth bindings, custom fine bindings, and Signed/Numbered/Limited Editions.

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Interested: Please send email to info@tolkienlibrary.com.