Janet deCoux letters to Mary and Matha Bates Swiss, circa 1944-1988

Collection Information

Size: 0.4 Linear feet

Summary: Approximately 130 letters from sculptor Janet deCoux to her studio assistant Mary Bates Swiss and to Swiss's daughter Martha Bates Swiss. deCoux writes about her works in progress, her emotional state of mind, relationships, philosophy of life, and travels. Also included are two photographs of deCoux's sculpture of William Penn in progress in her studio in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania with Martha Swiss and deCoux's poodle, Gigi, 1964.

Biographical/Historical Note

Mary Bates Swiss (1925-1998) was sculptor Janet deCoux's studio assistant. Swiss and deCoux studied together at the Cranbook Academy of Art.

Provenance

Donated 2016 by Martha Swiss, Mary Bates Swiss's daughter and Janet deCoux's goddaughter.

Restrictions on Access

Use of original papers requires an appointment and is limited to the Archives' Washington, D.C., Research Center.

How to Cite This Collection

Janet deCoux letters to Mary and Matha Bates Swiss, circa 1944-1988. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.