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VOLTAIRE Autograph Handwritten Letter Signed Re: Loan Repayment * PSA Signature
$7,995.00
Guaranteed Authentic
Prolific French Author and French Enlightenment thinker best known by his pen name VOLTAIRE (François-Marie Arouet) entirely handwritten autograph letter signed dated 22 March, 1765 from his estate at Ferney, to Francois-Louis Jeanmaire, treasurer of the domains of the Duke of Wurttemberg regarding an existing financial agreement, signed at conclusion as, Voltaire. With original address panel on verso.
Published in the official correspondence of Voltaire as D12492 — Voltaire to François-Louis Jeanmaire, Ferney, 22 March 1765, OCV, vol. 112, p. 473, the letter is part of Voltaire’s long-running financial relationship with Charles Eugene, Duke of Württemberg. By 1765, Voltaire – Europe's leading philosopher – had lent or invested substantial sums with the Duke and was anticipating an initial payment.
In full:
"Sir - The Count de Montmartin having done me the honor of informing me that you would have sent to me, on his behalf, the ratification by His Highness the Duke of Württemberg and that of the Chamber of Montbéliard, I do not doubt that you will be kind enough to send me these necessary documents, while arranging for me to receive the first quarterly payment during the first days of April, and while kindly informing me by what route or means you intend to send them.
I shall be greatly obliged to you if you will present my respects to the Count de Montmartin.
I have the honor to remain, most sincerely, Sir,
your very humble and very obedient servant
Voltaire"
A fascinating glimpse into the business affairs of one of Europe's greatest thinkers and influential landowners, Voltaire had extensive financial and property interests throughout the Franco-Swiss border region. Today, Voltaire is perhaps best remembered for advocating freedom of speech and religion and separation of church and state.
The Voltaire handwritten letter has been thoroughly reviewed and CERTIFIED AUTHENTIC BY PSA/DNA EXPERT EXAMINATION and encapsulated using PSA/DNA's proprietary sonically-sealed technology. GUARANTEED GENUINE – a museum quality acquisition for any collection.
Condition is as shown, with expected wear, stains, wrinkles, foxing, mailing folds and some paper loss consistent with the age, use and handling of a 260 year old document. Please review images carefully for exact condition. Document measures approximately 7.5" x 9.25" inside 10" x 13" encapsulate. Pencil notation on verso in unknown hand in French indicating it as an autograph letter of Voltaire.
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Own a remarkable, original piece of World history! Perfect for the autograph collector, Francophile, Voltaire or World History or Philosophy buff. A must-have addition to the autograph portfolio, den, Executive Office, Museum or Library.
Sold as is, as shown.