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Georges Bataille's Confrontation Over Laure's Deathbed

other · 2026-04-23

On November 7, 1938, Laure (born Colette Peignot), the companion of Georges Bataille, died. During her final moments, while she was still conscious, Bataille engaged in a violent confrontation with Laure's mother and older sister, according to testimonies from friends Marcel Moré and Michel Leiris. The family demanded the presence of a priest and hoped Laure would make the sign of the cross, proving she had regained faith. She did not.

Key facts

  • Laure, born Colette Peignot, died on November 7, 1938.
  • She was the companion of Georges Bataille.
  • Bataille confronted Laure's mother and older sister during her agony.
  • The family demanded a priest and hoped for a sign of the cross.
  • Laure did not make the sign of the cross.
  • Testimonies from Marcel Moré and Michel Leiris confirm the confrontation.

Entities

Artists

  • Georges Bataille
  • Laure
  • Colette Peignot

Sources