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NAPOLEON BONAPARTE Autograph GERMANY ARMY ARTILLERY Directive Signed 1809 * PSA
$4,995.00
Guaranteed Authentic
Napoleon orders funds transferred to the Army of Germany's artillery in the immediate aftermath of his victory at Wagram, Austria.
Legendary French Emperor and General NAPOLEON BONAPARTE authentic autograph directive signed from his field headquarters at Schönbrunn Palace transferring additional funds to the Artillery of the Army of Germany during the 1809 campaign. The directive is written in the hand of a secretary but boldly signed with a dramatic flourish at conclusion as "Napoleon", (or "Nap") in his aggressive scrawl.
The directive's recipient was General Henri-Jacques-Guillaume Clarke, Napoleon's Minister of War, later Duke of Feltre. Only 15 days earlier, on July 5-6, Napoleon had fought and defeated Archduke Charles' Austrian army at the Battle of Wagram, just northeast of Vienna. The artillery expenditure during this campaign had been enormous with some estimates indicating the artillery fired 15,000 rounds, while Napoleon himself estimated overall ammunition expenditure at approximately 100,000 cannon rounds during the battle.
In full,
"Monsieur le Général Clarke,
You will find enclosed a report from General Lariboisière. I have ordered that the 400,000 francs remaining be paid into the treasury of the artillery of the army.
With this, I pray God to keep you in His holy protection.
At Schönbrunn, 21 July 1809.
Napoleon"
The Napoleon signature has been thoroughly reviewed and CERTIFIED AUTHENTIC BY PSA/DNA EXPERT EXAMINATION and encapsulated using PSA/DNA's proprietary sonically-sealed technology. GUARANTEED GENUINE – an exceptional, museum-quality acquisition for any collection.
In fine condition, as shown, with folds, light toning and incidental wear consistent with the age, use and handling of a 225+ year old document. Docketed at mid-left in secretarial hand. Please review images carefully for exact condition. Letter measures approximately 9" x 7.25" inside 13" x 10" encapsulate.
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Sold as is, as shown.