Karel Capek Autograph Letter Signed in Czech, Submitting a Story to an Editor and Requesting His Manuscript Back
Karel Capek (1890-1938), the Czech novelist and playwright who gave the world the word "robot" through his 1920 play "R.U.R." and whose prescient fiction explored the dangers of technology and totalitarianism, writes this brief but characterful note in Czech to an unnamed editor. The ALS reads in full: "Pane redaktore, tady posilam tu povidku; prosim, vrafte mi rukopis pokud mozna brzy. Vam oddany / Karel Capek." In English: "Dear Editor, here I am sending the story; please return the manuscript to me as soon as possible. Yours devotedly / Karel Capek."
The note is entirely characteristic of Capek's working life: prolific, professional, and direct. He contributed widely to Czech literary journals and newspapers throughout his career. Capek died in December 1938, just months after the Munich Agreement destroyed the Czechoslovak state he had devoted his career to defending. His autograph material is scarce outside Central European collections.
ALS, one page, black ink, approximately 8 x 11 inches, undated, in Czech, addressed to "Pane redaktore" (IMG_276.jpg). Light toning; paper sound; overall good to very good condition. Estimate: $1,000-$1,800.
This item will be accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from One of a Kind Collectibles.