A.A. Milne's Personal Letters Fetch £2,900 at Auction, Surpassing Expectations
A collection of nine personal letters from A.A. Milne, the beloved author of Winnie the Pooh, has sold for a total of £2,900 at auction, more than double its original estimate. The auction took place on February 11 at the auction house of TV antiques expert Irita Marriott, featuring rare items that provide a glimpse into Milne's private life.
Intimate Glimpses into Milne's Friendships
The letters, which had never been on the market before, were passed down through the family of Vincent Seligman and his wife, Barbara, lifelong friends of the author. They offer an intimate view of their close relationship, with one letter reading, "Thank you, Darling, for putting up with me. You are a blessed pair, and I am most grateful to you," signed off with Milne's nickname, "Blue." Other letters discuss everyday activities, such as attending a cricket match at Lord's, arranging a stay with the couple on his way to Cambridge, and thanking Barbara for sending items he left behind during a visit.
Additional Highlights from the Auction
Among the lots was a letter from Milne's son, Christopher Robin, the inspiration for the famous character, which sold for £1,000. In this letter, he thanks Vincent for stamps and mentions his "dear little pony called Cracker." The auction also featured:
- A first edition of 'The Christopher Robin Verses' from 1923, which sold for £1,600.
- A copy of 'Winnie the Pooh' with a personalised inscription, selling for £1,000.
Both books included inscriptions from the author, adding to their value and rarity.
Expert Insights on the Collection
Auction house owner Irita Marriott commented, "These incredible letters came to us directly from Vincent's family, and had never been on the market before, so we were delighted to have the opportunity to sell these for the family. They give a real insight into A.A. Milne's life and a sense of what he was really like as a person with the people who knew him best." The sale highlights the enduring appeal of Milne's work and personal artifacts, attracting collectors and enthusiasts alike.
