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The Société des amis de Marcel Proust et des amis de Combray, is a non-profit association, created in 1947, which aims to bring together Proust's readers and promote his work.

Considered to be of public interest since 1955, the Société counts among its members both amateurs (lovers of literature, literary figures, etc.) and professionals alike (academics, specialists, etc.). It is also an association of friends of the Maison de tante Léonie, who wish to support the opening of this museum dedicated to Marcel Proust and to participate in the enrichment of its collections.

As we celebrate in 2021 Marcel Proust's 150th birthday, the Société des amis de Marcel Proust et des amis de Combray has decided to sponsor a fundraising campaign aiming at acquiring a painting by Thomas Alexander Harrison, Beach Tides. This painter plays an important role in the work of Proust as he is one of the main sources of inspiration for Elstir, a painter character in la Recherche.

The Société regularly acquires new pieces to supplement its collection, such as for instance:

  • some galley proofs from A l'ombre des jeunes filles en fleurs ;
  • a drypoint etching by Paul-César Helleu, Mme Helleu écrivant ;
  • a drawing by Madeleine Lemaire reproduced in Les Plaisirs et les Jours ;
  • a photography of Reynaldo Hahn dedicated to Marcel Proust ;
  • a letter by Marcel Proust to Raoul Versini.

Some brochures edited by the association set these pieces in their historical context and shed light on their particular significance in the life and work of Marcel Proust.

Online versions of the brochures are available by clicking the thumbnails below.

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La Société being recognized as a public interest entity, donations qualify for a deduction from French income taxes up to 66% of the donated amounts, within 20% of taxable income.

Donations entitle you to the following rewards:

  • From 10€ to 29€ : the publication of your name on the list of donors* ;
  • From 30€ to 49€ : the brochure dedicated to the acquisition of Harrison's painting (to be published in French) + the publication of your name on the list of donors* ;
  • From 50€ to 99€ : two brochures of your choosing + the brochure dedicated to the acquisition of Harrison's painting (to be published in French) + the publication of your name on the list of donors* ;
  • From 100€ to 249€ : all four brochures already published + the brochure dedicated to the acquisition of Harrison's painting (to be published in French) + the publication of your name on the list of donors* ;
  • Over 250€ : a copy of the illustrated edition of Combray (in French - to be published) + all four brochures already published + the brochure dedicated to the acquisition of Harrison's painting (to be published in French) + the publication of your name on the list of donors* ;

* : Donors have the possibility to remain anonymous.

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