Latest Arrivals
Catherine II., The Great (1729-1796)
Scarce autograph letter signed regarding allegations
Yekaterina Alexeevna or Catherine II., also known as Catherine the Great, was the most renowned and the longest-ruling female leader of Russia, reigning from 9 July 1762 until her death in 1796 at the age of 67. Her reign was called Russia's golden age. Autograph letter signed “Caterine”. 1p. (bifolium), 7.25 x 9.0 inch, n.p., 1769 June 19. A fine handwritten letter, probably to the Russian Privy Councilor Ernst Johann Graf von Münnich (1707-1788) with the order to investigate allegations made against an emissary. In French, in full: „Par la si jointe Vous verrés qu’il y a un homme qui pretend que Vos Subdelegué le font mourir de faim, conoissant Votre façon de penser, je voudrois parier qu’il n’en est rien, je Vous prie de voir par Vous meme ce qui en est, et de faire rendre exacte justice a cet homme dont je Vous ai je pense renvoyé l’affaire, Vous me ferés rapport de ce qui se passera, ayé Soin Surtout que cela ce finisse au plutot.“ Mailing folds, else fine condition.
Price: $ 7,200 / € 6.000
Kennedy, John F. (1917-1963)
Content typed letter signed with handwritten addition
35. President of the United States. Typed letter signed “Jack”. 1p., 8.0 x 10.5 inch, on his Congress of the United States letterhead, Washington, 1952 November 13. To Richard Kelly in Boston. With a fine handwritten addition in Kennedy’s hand: “Many thanks for all of your help”. The letter in full: “Dear Dick: I want you to know how grateful I am to you for all of your help over the past months. I am certain that we would never have been so successful against the Eisenhower landslide if it had not been for the effectiveness of our organization, an organization, in my opinion that was the best that the state had ever seen. I am particularly appreciative of your help - for I know that the campaign took far too much of your efforts and energy away from your work, but it made all the difference and I am greatly indebted to you. I expect to go away soon for a few weeks, but I am looking forward to seeing you sometime soon to thank you personally. I hope you will let me know if there is every anything I can do.” Also included is an UNSIGNED Western Union telegram of Kennedy to Kelly, dated November 6, 1952, with a short thank you note. Mailing folds, else fine condition. Comes together with my book “John F. Kennedy - autograph study” - about 90 pages with hundreds of signatures (authentic, secretary, Autopen, stamps, facsimile etc.).
Price: $ 1,925 / € 1.750
Blyton, Enid (1897-1968)
German first edition signed
English children's writer. Signed book “Love from Enid Blyton”. Hardcover book “Die Farrellkinder” (Original title: House at the corner), 5.0 x 7.5 inch, n.p., n.d. German First edition, Verlag Die Boje, Stuttgart, 1954. Signed in blue ballpoint pen. Handling wear, pages slightly discolored, two numbers in felt tip pen written on the first page, else good condition. Books signed by Blyton are rather uncommon.
Price: $ 540 / € 450
Grieg, Edvard (1843-1907)
Autograph musical quotation signed “This is how life should be!”
Norwegian composer and pianist. He is widely considered one of the leading Romantic era composers, and his music is part of the standard classical repertoire worldwide. Autograph musical quotation signed “Edvard Grieg”. 1p., bifolium, 7.0 x 8.75 inch. Stuttgart, February 1890. In Grieg’s hand a C Major chord and the Swedish verse “Sådan bör livet vara!...” Translated: “This is how life should be!...” Two further entries on the third and fourth page of the bifolium, one by the pianist Josef Weiss (Stuttgart 1890) with a short autograph musical quotation signed. Slightly discolored, else good condition.
Price: $ 2,800 / € 2.330
Robespierre, Maximilien de (1758-1794)
Important document signed “certifié conforme Robespierre”
French lawyer and politician, as well as one of the best known and most influential figures associated with the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror. Printed document signed “certifié conforme Robespierre”. 2 pages + integral address page, bifolium, 8.25 x 10.5 inch, Paris, le 12 Germinal, l’an 2 de la Republique Française (1794 April 1). On “COMITE DE SALUT PUBLIC. BUREAU DE L’ACTION” letterhead. - N° 48. ÉGALITÉ. LIBERTÉ. at the top. Addressed in ink “Aux administrateurs de District”. Announcement concerning the suppression of attorneys general within the public administration. Countersigned by Bertrand Barere (1755-1841) a French politician, freemason, journalist, and one of the most prominent members of the National Convention, representing the Plain (a moderate political faction) during the French Revolution. Slightly discolored, handling wear, loss of paper on the address page due to opening of the wax seal, red wax seal residue still visible. A fine document from the top of the Reign of Terror. On July 27, Robespierre was overthrown and executed the next day. Georges Danton was guillotined only four days after this letter on April 5, 1794. Rare - especially from this time.
Price: $ 5,400 / € 4.500
Ceaușescu, Nicolae (1918-1989)
Signed photograph
Romanian Communist politician. Signed glossy black and white photograph “N. Ceausescu”. 5.5 x 8.5 inch, n.p., n.d. (1981). Accompanied by the transmittal letter from the Director of Ceausescu’s office, dated April 2, 1981. Fine condition.
Price: $ 275 / € 230
Tagore, Rabindranath (1861-1941)
Fine ink signature matted with photograph
Bengali polymath who reshaped Bengali literature and music. He became the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913. Fine fountain pen signature in Bengali on an off-white 3.5 x 2.75 inch (visible) album page, dated September 14, 1926. Handsomely matted in gray with a photograph of Tagore to an overall of 7.75 x 11.75 inch. Both items removable affixed with photo corners. On verso signature of composer Prince Joachim of Prussia (1876-1939). Fine condition.
Price: $ 870 / € 725
Montessori, Maria (1870-1952)
Excellent content autograph letter signed
Italian physician and educator best known for the philosophy of education that bears her name. Autograph letter signed “Maria Montessori”. 4 pages, bifolium, high quality watermark paper, 6.0 x 7.5 inch, Hampstead (London), 1927 July 1 (postmark). On her personal “Maria Montessori” stationery. Addressed to contessa Ludovica Borromeo Gallarati Scotti a Palazzo Borromeo in via Manzoni a Milano. A fine letter in Italian: "La sua lettera e l’invio di un telegramma … mi ha veramente trafitto il cuore.“ (Your letter and telegram ... really touched my heart). Montessori goes on to thank the recipient for the "brilliant gift and help to the movement." Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Montessori’s hand, post stamp cut out, stain upper left corner, mailing folds, else fine condition. Montessori is rare in any form!
Price: $ 3,540 / € 2.950
Montessori, Maria (1870-1952)
Autograph postcard signed
Italian physician and educator best known for the philosophy of education that bears her name and her writing on scientific pedagogy. At an early age, Montessori enrolled in classes at an all-boys technical school, with hopes of becoming an engineer. Autograph postcard signed “Maria”. Postcard, 5.5 x 3.5 inch, no place, no date. Front shows the ship “Conte Verde” of the Lloyd Sabaudo shipping transport line. Addressed to contessa Ludovica Borromeo. A fine card in Italian: "Amata Contessa Porto con Lei nel cuore - e foro sempre vicina a Lei tutto il tempo - a traversa questa prora”. Translated: “Beloved Countess, I carry you in my heart and am always close to you - over this bow". Fine condition. Montessori is rare in any form!
Price: $ 1,740 / € 1.450
Mussolini, Benito (1883-1945)
Card signed
Benito Mussolini was an Italian politician, journalist and leader of the National Fascist Party – known as Il Duce (“the leader”) ruling the country as Prime Minister 1922 to 1943. He ruled constitutionally until 1925, when he dropped all pretense of democracy and set up a dictatorship that ruled the country until 1943. Mussolini was one of the key figures in the creation of fascism. Card signed “Mussolini”. 1p., 5.5 x 3.5 inch, n.p., n.d. With fine embossed crowned cross monogramme. Signd in dark black ink. Card was part of a menu (breakfast information on verso) and was later cut or trimmed to the actual size. Handling and corner wear, else good condition. Together with an unsigned vintage postcard photograph showing Mussolini and his mistress Clara Petacci after being shot in the village of Giulino di Mezzegra, April 28, 1945.
Price: $ 480 / € 400
Strauss, Johann (1825-1899)
Carte-de-visite photograph with autograph musical quotation signed
Also known as Johann Strauss, Jr., the Younger. Austrian composer and known as "The Waltz King". Excellent carte-de-visite photograph signed “Johann Strauss”. Carte-de-visite photo, 2.5 x 4.25 inch, no place, no date. Inscribed on verso by Strauss “Fräulein Emilie Tolentino der reizenden Sängerin zur freundlichen Erinnerung an Johann Strauss”. With an autograph musical quotation by Strauss on verso, four bars from the waltz „Wiener Blut” (Vienna blood). Photograph by Schrank & Massak in Vienna, a fine head and shoulders portrait, three-quarter face, showing him in middle age. Fine condition. Wiener Blut “Vienna Blood” Op. 354 is a waltz by Johann Strauss first performed by the composer on 22 April 1873. The new dedication waltz was to celebrate the wedding of the Emperor Franz Joseph I's daughter Archduchess Gisela Louise Maria and Prince Leopold of Bavaria. However, the waltz was also noted by Strauss' biographers as the début of Strauss with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
Price: $ 4,750 / € 3.950
Hussein, Saddam (1937-2006)
Important document signed
The fifth President of Iraq, serving in this capacity from 16 July 1979 until 9 April 2003. Document signed. 1p., 8.0 x 11.0 inch, n.p. (Baghdad), 1980 May 18, blind embossed national coat of arms at the top. Signed in red ink by Hussein as President of the Bath-Party. The document deals with the affiliation of a city that wants to belong to the district of Mossul. A German translation is included. Slightly discolored, else good condition.
Price: $ 1,250 / € 1.040
Joseph I., Franz (1830-1916)
Autograph document signed re: death of Archduke Joseph
Emperor of Austria, Apostolic King of Hungary, King of Bohemia, King of Croatia, King of Galicia and Lodomeria and Grand Duke of Cracow from 1848 until his death in 1916. From 1 May 1850 until 24 August 1866 he was President of the German Confederation. Autograph document signed with paraph. 1p. (bifolium), 6.75 x 8.25 inch, n.p., 1905 June 16 (written in a different hand at the bottom). A fine handwritten document on the occasion of the death of Archduke Joseph, who died on June 13 in Fiume and was buried on June 19 in the Palatinus Crypt at Ofen. In addition to Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the funeral ceremony was attended by Emperor Franz Joseph (as King of Hungary). In pencil, in German, in full: “Diese Anträge genehmigt. In Karlstadt, Agram und Kaposvár hat auch das Offizierscorps des stehenden Heeres auf dem Bahnhofe zu erscheinen.” At the bottom in a different hand „Fahrt der Leiche Ehz. Josef“. Archduke Joseph Karl of Austria (1833-1905) was a member of the Habsburg dynasty. He was the second son of Archduke Joseph, Palatine of Hungary (7th son of Leopold II., Holy Roman Emperor) and Duchess Maria Dorothea of Württemberg. Slightly discolored from prior framing, else good condition.
Price: $ 780 / € 650
Montgolfier, Joseph-Michel (1740-1810)
Autograph letter signed + three additional family letters
French politician and pioneering aviator. Best known for inventing, with his brother, Jacques-Etienne, the first successful hot-air balloon the Montgolfière-style hot air balloon, globe aérostatique, which launched the first confirmed piloted ascent by man in 1783. Autograph letter signed “J. Montgolfier”. 1p., 7.0 x 9.5 inch, Paris, 1791 February 7, red wax seal. A fine letter in French to the family doctor Mathieu Duret, the "Médecin Duret, officier municipal" (addressed on verso) in Annonay, to whom he sends family news from his uncle and niece. Also included is an autograph letter signed “Montgolfier ainé". Written and signed by Pierre Montgolfier (1700-1793), father of Joseph und Étienne. 1,5 pages, 1783 November 24. To Madame Montgolfier in the Ursuline Convent in Boulieu. After dealing with various topics (debts, clothing etc.), he reports to her that: "…que de toutes les nouvelles que l'on fait courir il n'y a de vray que le cordon noir promis à étienne et des lettres de noblesse à notre père, le tout qu'y a été promis et non encore effectué que nous aurions voulu nous en faire jusqu'à la conclusion ... l'abbé est parti vendredy avec la fanny et le petit joseph est arrivé le même jour à Lyon où il a vu Joseph qui se porte bien et dont la machine doit s'élever lundy prochain et partir le mardy si le temps le permet ...". And two autograph letters signed by „Étienne Chomel Dolivet“, a close friend of the Montgolfier family. Annonay January 20 and January 23, 1784. The first letter reports on the circulating rumors, discussions and expectations before the planned balloon ascent. "... J'ay été touché de l'intérêt obligeant qui tous nos concitoyens prenaient à cet Evenement, ma maison ne desemplissait pas, on voulait que j'en scu plus que tout autre, Enfin hier sur les cinq heures du soir un galant homme vient chez moy m'annoncer qu'il ne fallait plus croire à des propos affligeants qu'un Citoyen d'annonay parti de Lyon Samédy assurant avoir vu partir le Ballon monté par huit personnes sans accident ... Je mis faire indiquer l'homme, je l'envoie chercher avec une impatience inconcevable, il arrive et au lieu d'un départ pompeux il me dit qu'il a vu le feu à la partie Supérieure du Ballon ..." In the second letter, Dolivet describes the event as an eyewitness. "... Entre 1 à 2 heures de l'après midy le Balon [!]partit monté par 7 personnes: Joseph, Le prince de Ligne, Durosier, Le comte Dampierre, Danglifore, un jeune Fontaine - dès le départ, le Balon rasait la terre et quand il eut bien sur l'escort il monta le plus majesteusement aux acclamations d'une multitude innombrable, les vive Montgolfier ralentissaient, les Voyageurs repondaient aux Empressement public, cette Cérémonie dura tant qu'il eut possible de se repondre après que l'on agitait des Mouchoirs. la machine parvint à telle Elevation qu'on ne put plus voir les Voyageurs et qu'elle ne parut pas plus grosse que celle Expérimentée à annonay, elle se maintint en l'air pendant à propre un quatre d'heure ...". The description continues over three more closely written pages and finally quotes a leaflet with the quatrain that appeared on the occasion of the event: "un espace infini nous separait des Cieux / mais grace aux montgolfier qui le génie inspire / l'aigle de Jupiter a perdu son empire / et le faible mortel peut s'approcher des dieux". Mailing folds, handling wear, else good condition.
Price: $ 3,480 / € 2.900
Victoria, Queen (1819-1901)
Autograph letter signed (written in German)
Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain & Ireland 1837-1901. Autograph letter signed “Victoria RI”. 2 pages, bifolium, black bordered mourning stationery, 4.5 x 7.0 inch, Balmoral Castle, 1890 June 16. To Princess Louise Sophie of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Augustenburg (1866-1952), wife of Prince Friedrich Leopold of Prussia. In German, in full: „Ich schicke Dir hierbei mein Tauf-Geschenk für mein liebes Path(en)kind und bedauere sehr daß es nicht fertig war zur Zeit der Taufe. Mit den freundlichsten Grüßen an Fritz Leopold und den besten Wünschen für Deine Notharsachen und das Gedeihen der lieben Kleinen (Viktoria Margarete Elisabeth Marie Ulrike 1890–1923) verbleibe ich, Deine getreue Großtante“. Translated: “I am sending you my baptism gift for my dear godchild and I am very sorry that it was not ready at the time of the baptism. With kindest regards to Fritz Leopold and best wishes for your notary affairs and the prosperity of the dear little ones (Viktoria Margarete Elisabeth Marie Ulrike 1890–1923), I remain, your faithful great-aunt”. Mailing fold, else fine condition. Only the second letter written in German that I can offer.
Price: $ 1,860 / € 1.550
Planck, Max (1858-1947)
Book signed “poetry in Bavarian dialect”
German theoretical physicist who originated quantum theory, which won him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1918. Book signed and inscribed “Seiner lieben Cousine Anna Brandis zur Erinnerung an ihren Besuch in München. 2. August 1880. Max Planck.” Hardcover book “Weil’s mi’ freut! - Neue Gedichte in oberbairischer Mundart von Karl Stieler”, Stuttgart Meyer & Zeller’s Verlag 1877, 131 pages. Pages slightly discolored, handling wear, else good condition. Uncommon and early Planck autograph.
Price: $ 1,020 / € 850
Baker, Josephine (1906-1975)
Signed photograph
American-born French dancer, singer and actress. Vintage signed photograph “votre Josephine”. Postcard, 3.5 x 5.5 inch, n.p., n.d. The image depicting Baker in a full-length pose in costume. Verso printed “ANNABACOA” and “Par autorisation spéciale de Jospehine Baker. Les MILANDES (Dordogne).” Signed in blue ballpoint pen. Fine condition. Rare postcard, especially signed by Baker.
Price: $ 370 / € 310
Gaulle, Charles de (1890-1970)
Typed letter signed
French general and statesman who led the Free French Forces during World War II. He later founded the French Fifth Republic in 1958 and served as its first president from 1959 to 1969. Fine typed letter signed “C.de Gaulle”. 1p., 8.25 x 10.5 inch, on his personal embossed “LE GÉNÉRAL DE GAULLE” letterhead, (Paris), 1947 May 2. Signed in dark black ink and addressed to Monsieur Henri Soulier in Paris. The letter in French, in full: “Mon Cher Soulier, Il m’est impossible de répondre par l’affirmative à votre letter du Il Avril. Si j’ai du, en effet, me fixer la règle, á laquelle je ne puis apporter d’exeption, de ne donner aucune interview, soyez assure que dans la cas present ke le regrette particulièrment. Croyez, Mon Cher Soulier, à mes sentiments cordialment dévoués”. Translated: “…It is impossible for me to reply to your letter of April II. If I had, in fact, to set myself the rule, to which I can make no exception, of not giving any interview, be assured that in the present case I particularly regret it”. Mailing folds, handling wear, slightly discolored, else good condition.
Price: $ 720 / € 600
Hauptmann, Gerhart (1862-1946)
Typed letter signed by the Nobel prize winner
German dramatist and novelist. He is counted among the most important promoters of literary naturalism, though he integrated other styles into his work as well. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1912. Typed letter signed “Mit hochachtungsvollem Gruss Gerhart Hauptmann”. 1p., 8.5 x 10.75 inch, Sestri Levante, 1931 January 21. To an unnamed recipient regarding an invitation. In German, in full: "Es tut mir unendlich leid, dem sechzigsten Concordia-Ball nicht beiwohnen zu können, da ich mir die Reise von hier in den nördlichen Winter leider nicht zumuten kann und außerdem bald nach Sizilien zu gehen vorhabe. Bleibt mir also nichts übrig, als Ihnen vielmals für die freundliche Einladung zu danken!" Mailing folds, else fine.
Price: $ 240 / € 200
Planck, Max (1858-1947)
Autograph letter signed WW II. dated
German theoretical physicist who originated quantum theory, which won him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1918. Autograph letter signed “Max Planck”. 1 page, postcard, 5.75 x 4.0 inch, Berlin-Grunewald, at present Rittergut Rogätz, 1943 December 18. Addressed to Georg Lenz in Hamburg after Planck’s evacuation. In German, in full: “Lieber Georg! Deinen freundlichen Gruß vom 6. d.M., der mich erst jetzt hier erreichte, erwidere ich mit herzlichen Dank und mit guten Wünschen für Euer fernes Wohlergehen, nachdem ihr bis jetzt von speziellen Schäden glücklicherweiße verschont geblieben seid. Uns ist es nicht ganz so gut gegangen. Zwar steht unser Haus in Berlin noch, aber es hat doch bei den verschiedenen Angriffen an Fenster, Türen und am Dach so gelitten, daß wir vorläufig dort nicht wohnen, sondern die Benutzung einigen total Bombengeschädigten überlassen haben. Wir verbringen den Winter hier als Gäste des hiesigen Gutsherrn, des Großindustriellen Dr. Still (Recklinghausen) und haben wenigstens ruhige Nächte. Einmal wird ja auch diese unsinnige Zeit ein Ende nehmen …”. Translated, parts: “…Our house in Berlin is still there, but it has suffered so much from the various attacks on the windows, doors and roof that we are not living there for the time being, but have left it to a few people who were totally bombed. We spend the winter here as guests …and at least have quiet nights. One day this senseless time will come to an end...”. Also included is a handwritten postcard, 2 pages, 1944 May 18 written by Planck’s wife Margarete (Marga) Plack (1882-1949) addressed to Georg Lenz in Hamburg. Handling wear, else good condition. Georg Lenz in Hamburg, son of his friend and distant relative, the Berlin historian Max Lenz (1850-1932).
Price: $ 1,440 / € 1.200
Planck, Max (1858-1947)
Autograph letter signed WW II. dated
German theoretical physicist who originated quantum theory, which won him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1918. Autograph letter signed “Max Planck”. 1 page, postcard, 5.75 x 4.0 inch, Berlin-Grunewald, 1942 May 21. Verso a black and white photograph of the Berlin Palace. Army postal service addressed to Georg Lenz in Hamburg. In German, in full: “Lieber Georg! Meinen herzlichen Dank, daß Du meines Geburtstags so freundlich gedacht hast. Ich war ganz erfreut, aus dem Ausland von Dir zu hören. Aber heutzutage geht ja alles etwas durcheinander. Auch ich war mit Marga (his second wife) im Ausland, aber im friedlichen Italien, Rom und Bozen, wo man von Kriegsstimmung viel weniger merkt als bei uns. Herzlich grüßt Dich Dein treuer Onkel Max Planck“. Handling wear, else good condition. Georg Lenz in Hamburg, son of his friend and distant relative, the Berlin historian Max Lenz (1850-1932).
Price: $ 1,200 / € 1.000
Planck, Max (1858-1947)
Autograph letter signed
German theoretical physicist who originated quantum theory, which won him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1918. Autograph letter signed “Max Planck”. 2 pages, recto and verso of a card, 5.5 x 3.5 inch, Berlin-Grunewald, 1932 April 25. To Georg Lenz with congratulations to his engagement. In German, in full: „Lieber Georg! Wenige Stunden ehe ich Deine Anzeige erhielt, haben mir Deine liebe Mutter, die mich mit Fritz besuchte, die neue Nachricht mit einigen Einzelheiten über Deine Braut erzählt. Ich kann Dir nicht sagen, wie sehr mich dieser Schritt von Dir erfreut. Daß Dein Vater ihn nicht mehr erlebt hat, ist zu beklagen. Aber sicher ist auch, daß Du damit ganz in seinem Sinn handelst, und daß Du bei allen, die Dir nahe stehen, vor allem Deiner lieben Mutter und Deinen Geschwistern, neues Glück verbreiten wirst. Grüße mir auch Deine werte Braut von Herzen, auch im Namen von Marga, ich bin überzeugt, daß sie, da sie es verstanden hat, auf Dich doch immerhin etwas verwöhnten jungen Mann Eindruck zu machen, ganz besondere Qualitäten besitzen muß. Hoffentlich haben wir bald einmal Gelegenheit, sie kennen zu lernen. Einstweilen beide die besten Glückwünsche. Es ruft doch wohl bald zur Hochzeit? Herzlichst Dein Onkel Max Planck“. Fine condition. Georg Lenz in Hamburg, son of his friend and distant relative, the Berlin historian Max Lenz (1850-1932).
Price: $ 1,200 / € 1.000
POLITICS
Lot of 10 autographs
1. Aristide Briand (Nobel Peace Price 1862-1932) - Signed postcard photograph / 2. Aristide Briand (Nobel Peace Price 1862-1932) - Visiting card with handwritten note and initial signed / 3. Philippe Pétain (French General 1856-1951) - Card signed and dated / 4. Philippe Pétain (French General 1856-1951) - Autograph note signed 1918 / 5. Charles de Gaulle (Statesman 1890-1970) - Visiting card with handwritten note and initial signed / 6. Randolph S. Churchill (Politician + son of Winston Churchill 1911-1968) - Typed letter signed 1965 / 7. André François-Poncet (French politician 1887-1978) - Autograph note signed and Visiting card with handwritten note (unsigned) mounted together on a piece of paper / 8. Louis XV. (King of France 1710-1774) - Document SECRETARY signed 1744 / 9. Benedetto Croce (Italian Politician 1866-1952) - Autograph letter signed on a card / 10. Joseph Ludwig Colmar (Bishop 1760-1818) - Autograph letter signed 1811. Minor handling wear, else good condition.
Price: $ 1,440 / € 1.200
Blücher, Gebhard Leberecht von (1742-1819)
Autograph letter signed
Fürst von Wahlstatt, Prussian Generalfeldmarschall (field marshal) who most notably led his army against Napoleon I. at the Battle of the Nations at Leipzig in 1813 and the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, in alliance with the Duke of Wellington. Autograph letter signed „Blücher“. 1 page, bifolium, 8.25 x 13.25 inch, 1812 September 23 (in a different hand at the top Dresden, 1812 September 29). Addressed on verso to the farmer Hübner, the new tenant of his Kunzendorf estate. With a fine red wax seal on verso. In German: “… aus den anlagen” (not enclosed) “werden sie des mehreren ersehen; u. trage ich ihm auf solche zu bevollgen, auch ihrem bruder zu vackenau auf zu geben”, die Pacht “von vackenau und Acht huben” noch im selben Monat zu begleichen. Mailing folds, slightly discolored, else good condition. In 1812 Blücher had to leave active service for political reasons and leased the above-mentioned estates. A year later, when the war against France resumed, Blücher was activated again.
Price: $ 1,680 / € 1.400
Goerdeler, Carl Friedrich (1884-1945)
Rare typed letter signed re: Johann Sebastian Bach
Resistance fighter, conservative German politician, executive, economist, civil servant and opponent of the Nazi regime. He opposed some of the anti-Jewish policies while he held office and was opposed to the Holocaust. Had the 20 July plot to assassinate Hitler in 1944 succeeded, Goerdeler would have served as the Chancellor of the new government. After his arrest, he gave names of numerous co-conspirators to the Gestapo, causing the arrests and executions of hundreds or even thousands of others. He was executed by hanging on 2 February 1945. Typed letter signed “Goerdeler”. 2 pages, recto and verso, 8.25 x 11.25 inch, Leipzig 1935 June 15. As major of Leipzig to Prof. D. Dr. Karl Straube in Leipzig. In German, in full: “Die Bachtage sollen nicht beginnen, ohne daß ich Ihnen der Stadt und meine persönlichen besonderen Grüße und Wünsche übermittele. Wir beglückwünschen Sie insbesondere zu der Anerkennung, die Ihre außerordentlichen Verdienste um die Geltung der deutschen Musik im Auslande dadurch gefunden haben, daß Sie zum ordentlichen Senator der Deutschen Akademie ernannt sind. Diese Anerkennung ehrt auch die Stadt, in der Sie als Thomaskantor wirken. Wir wissen es zu würdigen, daß Sie allen Versuchungen getrotzt haben, die darauf abzielten, ihrem meisterhaften Können und Ihrer Persönlichkeit anderwärts eine würdige Wirkungsstätte zu bereiten. Wir danken Ihnen für Ihre Treue, mit der Sie das Amt des Thomaskantors festgehalten haben. In diesen Tagen wird allzu häufig lebendig jene Unvollkommenheit des menschlichen Lebens, die sich darin offenbart, daß der Wirkende von den Mitlebenden nicht voll verstanden wird. Ihnen ist das hohe Glück zuteil geworden, Verehrung, Hochachtung und Dank einer ganzen Welt noch im tätigem Wirken genießen zu können. Möge unserem jetzigen Thomaskantor dieses Glück noch lange erhalten bleiben. Möge es verschönt werden durch jenes höhere Glück, das in dem Bewußtsein besteht, mit ganzer Kraft einer hohen Aufgabe dienen zu dürfen. Wir grüßen in Ihnen den würdigen Nachfolger des berühmtesten Leipziger Thomaskantors Johann Sebastian Bach und den Meister, der der vollendete Vollstrecker eines großen Vermächtnisses des lange verblichenen Amtsvorgängers geworden ist.“ Also included is an autograph letter signed from Anneliese Goerdeler to Hertha Johanna Straube, who condoles her on the death of her husband (Katharinenplaisir 1950). Mailing folds, else fine condition. Montgomery Rufus Karl Siegfried Straube (1873-1950) was a German church musician, organist, and choral conductor, famous for championing the abundant organ music of Max Reger. Note: We reject Nazism in any form! Nevertheless we offer autographs of this kind, because it is an important part of the history of the 20th Century. To the extent applicable to those affected by German law, particularly § 86a StGB, historical and military items from or relating to the period and personalities of the German Third Reich are offered for only purposes of education and research regarding historical events and military history. Clients who purchase such items agree that they will not use them for propaganda or other purposes that would be punishable under § 86a StGB.
Price: $ 1,200 / € 1.000
Goerdeler, Carl Friedrich (1884-1945)
Excellent autograph letter signed
Resistance fighter, conservative German politician, executive, economist, civil servant and opponent of the Nazi regime. He opposed some of the anti-Jewish policies while he held office and was opposed to the Holocaust. Had the 20 July plot to assassinate Hitler in 1944 succeeded, Goerdeler would have served as the Chancellor of the new government. After his arrest, he gave names of numerous co-conspirators to the Gestapo, causing the arrests and executions of hundreds or even thousands of others. He was executed by hanging on 2 February 1945. Excellent autograph letter signed “Goerdeler”. 2 pages, recto and verso of a card, 6.5 x 4.25 inch, Leipzig, 1928 December 31. On his personal “Dr. Goerdeler” card. To Prof. Dr. Karl Straube in Leipzig. In German, in full: “Hochverehrter Herr Professor, mit Ihrem freundlichen und feinen Gedanken zur Jahreswende haben Sie mir eine besondere Freude bereitet. Ich danke herzlich. Gott erhalte Ihnen die Gesundheit und segne Ihr Wirken, mit dem Sie so viele Herzen trösten und erhalten, auch im Neuen Jahre; es birgt große Entscheidungen, für die wir ein starkes Herz brauchen. Ihr stets ergebener.“ Fine condition. Montgomery Rufus Karl Siegfried Straube (1873-1950) was a German church musician, organist, and choral conductor, famous for championing the abundant organ music of Max Reger. Note: We reject Nazism in any form! Nevertheless we offer autographs of this kind, because it is an important part of the history of the 20th Century. To the extent applicable to those affected by German law, particularly § 86a StGB, historical and military items from or relating to the period and personalities of the German Third Reich are offered for only purposes of education and research regarding historical events and military history. Clients who purchase such items agree that they will not use them for propaganda or other purposes that would be punishable under § 86a StGB.
Price: $ 1,200 / € 1.000
Goerdeler, Carl Friedrich (1884-1945)
Rare typed letter signed by the resistance fighter
Resistance fighter, conservative German politician, executive, economist, civil servant and opponent of the Nazi regime. He opposed some of the anti-Jewish policies while he held office and was opposed to the Holocaust. Had the 20 July plot to assassinate Hitler in 1944 succeeded, Goerdeler would have served as the Chancellor of the new government. After his arrest, he gave names of numerous co-conspirators to the Gestapo, causing the arrests and executions of hundreds or even thousands of others. He was executed by hanging on 2 February 1945. Rare typed letter signed “Goerdeler”. 1p., 8.25 x 11.75 inch, Berlin, 1935 May 6. Addressed to „Nationalen Klub von Sachsen“ (National club of Saxony) in Dresden. On “Der Reichskommissar für Preisüberwachung” stationery. In German, in full: “Sehr verehrter Herr Oberstleutnant! Für die freundlichen Zeilen vom 29. April danke ich herzlich. Zu meinem besonders lebhaften Bedauern ist es mir nicht möglich, meinen Vortrag niederschreiben zu lassen. Ich habe ihn frei nach kurzen Stichworten gehalten und komme im Drange der Arbeit nicht dazu, ihn jetzt nachträglich zusammenzufassen. Es tut mir herzlich leid, aber ich kann es nicht ändern. Es war schade, daß ich Sie so früh verlassen mußte. Ich danke nochmals für die gastliche Aufnahme …“ Mailing folds, handling wear, else good condition. Rare autograph! Note: We reject Nazism in any form! Nevertheless we offer autographs of this kind, because it is an important part of the history of the 20th Century. To the extent applicable to those affected by German law, particularly § 86a StGB, historical and military items from or relating to the period and personalities of the German Third Reich are offered for only purposes of education and research regarding historical events and military history. Clients who purchase such items agree that they will not use them for propaganda or other purposes that would be punishable under § 86a StGB.
Price: $ 1,080 / € 900
Goerdeler, Carl Friedrich (1884-1945)
Rare typed letter signed by the resistance fighter
Resistance fighter, conservative German politician, executive, economist, civil servant and opponent of the Nazi regime. He opposed some of the anti-Jewish policies while he held office and was opposed to the Holocaust. Had the 20 July plot to assassinate Hitler in 1944 succeeded, Goerdeler would have served as the Chancellor of the new government. After his arrest, he gave names of numerous co-conspirators to the Gestapo, causing the arrests and executions of hundreds or even thousands of others. He was executed by hanging on 2 February 1945. Rare typed letter signed “Goerdeler”. 1p., (bifolium), 6.25 x 8.0 inch, Leipzig, 1931 March 11. As mayor of Leipzig, Goerdeler writes to a doctor and his wife and declines an invitation. In German, in full: “Für die überaus liebenswürdige Einladung zum 18. März danken meine Frau und ich herzlich. Soweit ich es bis jetzt übersehen kann, wird es uns zu unserem großen Bedauern nicht möglich sein, Ihr Folge zu leisten, da Mittwoch abend Etatberatungen in den zuständigen Ausschüssen stattfinden, und ich an ihnen teilnehmen muß. Wir müssen also bitten, uns gütigst zu entschuldigen.“ Mailing fold, else fine condition. Note: We reject Nazism in any form! Nevertheless we offer autographs of this kind, because it is an important part of the history of the 20th Century. To the extent applicable to those affected by German law, particularly § 86a StGB, historical and military items from or relating to the period and personalities of the German Third Reich are offered for only purposes of education and research regarding historical events and military history. Clients who purchase such items agree that they will not use them for propaganda or other purposes that would be punishable under § 86a StGB.
Price: $ 1,080 / € 900
Goerdeler, Carl Friedrich (1884-1945)
Rare typed letter signed by the resistance fighter
Resistance fighter, conservative German politician, executive, economist, civil servant and opponent of the Nazi regime. He opposed some of the anti-Jewish policies while he held office and was opposed to the Holocaust. Had the 20 July plot to assassinate Hitler in 1944 succeeded, Goerdeler would have served as the Chancellor of the new government. After his arrest, he gave names of numerous co-conspirators to the Gestapo, causing the arrests and executions of hundreds or even thousands of others. He was executed by hanging on 2 February 1945. Rare typed letter signed “Goerdeler”. 1p., 8.25 x 5.75 inch, Leipzig, 1934 June 22. As mayor of Leipzig, Goerdeler writes to Dr. Alfred Martin in Leipzig. A short thank you note for a “speech chorus”. In German, in full: “Für die freundliche Übersendung Ihres Sprechchores „O Du mein Deutschland“ danke ich Ihnen herzlich. Ich habe ihn mit großer Freude gelesen.“ Mailing folds, else good condition. Note: We reject Nazism in any form! Nevertheless we offer autographs of this kind, because it is an important part of the history of the 20th Century. To the extent applicable to those affected by German law, particularly § 86a StGB, historical and military items from or relating to the period and personalities of the German Third Reich are offered for only purposes of education and research regarding historical events and military history. Clients who purchase such items agree that they will not use them for propaganda or other purposes that would be punishable under § 86a StGB.
Price: $ 1,080 / € 900
Goerdeler, Carl Friedrich (1884-1945)
Rare typed letter signed by the resistance fighter
Resistance fighter, conservative German politician, executive, economist, civil servant and opponent of the Nazi regime. He opposed some of the anti-Jewish policies while he held office and was opposed to the Holocaust. Had the 20 July plot to assassinate Hitler in 1944 succeeded, Goerdeler would have served as the Chancellor of the new government. After his arrest, he gave names of numerous co-conspirators to the Gestapo, causing the arrests and executions of hundreds or even thousands of others. He was executed by hanging on 2 February 1945. Rare typed letter signed “Goerdeler”. 1p., 8.25 x 5.75 inch, Leipzig, 1931 November 21. As mayor of Leipzig, Goerdeler writes to Dr. Adolf Aber in Leipzig and “sends the desired lines”. In German, in full: “Abredegemäß übersende ich Ihnen die gewünschten Zeilen.” Mailing fold, else fine condition. Note: We reject Nazism in any form! Nevertheless we offer autographs of this kind, because it is an important part of the history of the 20th Century. To the extent applicable to those affected by German law, particularly § 86a StGB, historical and military items from or relating to the period and personalities of the German Third Reich are offered for only purposes of education and research regarding historical events and military history. Clients who purchase such items agree that they will not use them for propaganda or other purposes that would be punishable under § 86a StGB.
Price: $ 1,080 / € 900
Koch, Robert (1843-1910)
Rare autograph letter signed to astronomer F. Archenhold
German physician, pioneering microbiologist and the founder of modern bacteriology. Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1905. Autograph letter signed “R. Koch”. 1 page, 5.5 x 8.75 inch, Berlin, 1907 November 21. Very likely to the astronomer Friedrich Simon Archenhold, who, as head of the public observatory in Treptow, collected funds for a building for the giant telescope built for the Berlin World Exhibition of 1896. In German, in full: „Hochgeehrter Herr Direktor! Da ich Ihr Unternehmen für ein sehr nützliches halte, so würde es mir eine besondere Freude sein, wenn es mir vergönnt wäre Ihnen durch Gewährung des verlangten Darlehens behilflich zu sein. Aber meine Vermögensverhältnisse sind nicht derartige, wie Sie annehmen. Ich muss es mir deswegen zu meinem aufrichtigen Bedauern versagen, auf Ihren Vorschlag einzugehen.” Translated: “Dear Director! As I consider your company to be a very useful one, it would be a great pleasure for me to assist you in granting the loan you have requested. But my financial circumstances are not what you suppose. Therefore, to my sincere regret, I have to refrain from responding to your proposal." The letter with the request for "voluntary donations" is attached as a typescript (carbon copy unsigned). Mailing fold, handling wear, else good condition. Friedrich Simon Archenhold (1861-1939) was an astronomer who founded the Treptow Observatory (today the Archenhold Observatory) in Berlin-Treptow. On the basis of Archenhold's plans, the world's longest moving refracting telescope was built with a focal length of 21 meters. The telescope was part of the Great Industrial Exposition of Berlin, a world's fair. The giant telescope was constructed in Treptow, a suburb of Berlin.
Price: $ 3,480 / € 2.900
Theresa, Maria (1717-1780)
Letter Signed with handwritten postscript
The only female ruler of the Habsburg dominions, ruling from 1740 until her death in 1780. She was the sovereign of Austria, Hungary, Croatia, Bohemia, Transylvania, Mantua, Milan, Lodomeria and Galicia, the Austrian Netherlands, and Parma. By marriage, she was Duchess of Lorraine, Grand Duchess of Tuscany and Holy Roman Empress. Letter signed “Marie Therese”. 1p, bifolium, 7.5 x 9.25 inch, Vienna, 1764 June 1. With a fine handwritten postscript “mes compliments a vortre digne epouse que font mes deux cadets se portent ils bien?” Translated: "My compliments to your worthy wife. How are the two younger sons?" Letter in French addressed to “Au Marechal de Mes armées, Baron de Marschall”. The Empress asks Marschall, the then governor of Luxembourg, to baptize Baroness Tornaeo's child with his wife in her place and to name him Francois Joseph or Marie Therese. “… I have chosen you, with the Baroness de Marshal, to represent me on this occasion, in the belief that you will both be pleased to acquit yourself of a commission which I am very pleased to give you. My intention is that if the Baroness of Tornaeo gives birth to a son, he will be named Francois Joseph, but if it is a daughter, you will give him the name Marie Therese…” The original mailing envelope with a fine red wax seal is included. Mailing folds, handling wear, else good condition.
Price: $ 1,440 / € 1.200
Paganini, Niccolò (1782-1840)
Rare Letter Signed to famous composer Louis Spohr
Italian violinist, violist, guitarist, and composer. He was the most celebrated violin virtuoso of his time, and left his mark as one of the pillars of modern violin technique. Very rare letter signed “Niccolo Paganini”. 1p., bifolium, 8.5 x 10.0 inch, Frankfurt (Pariser Hoff), 1830 January no day. Very likely to Louis Spohr (1784-1859), court conductor in Kassel since 1822 (the address reads: “To the ducal”) and, alongside Paganini, one of the great violin virtuosos of his time, whom he canceled a planned stay in Kassel. Paganini had been on a brilliantly successful concert tour through Germany and Poland for a year, but had to interrupt it because his little son Achille was ill. In French: “… M’ayant trop retardé dans les Places en Allemagne dans lesquels j’ai donné des concerts, je suis obligé de filer tout droit a Paris. Me voila donc derobé encore pour quelques tems au desir ardent et a la haute jouis forme, d’entendre exécuter par Vous meme mon trés honnoré ami de Vos celebres compositions, dont tous connoisseurs et amateurs ressentent des eloges bien fondées; me voilà encore privé du plaisir de Vous donner quelques preuves de mon faible talent; mais patience, je depecherai mon sejour en France et en Engleterre, retourné en Allemagne, Cassel sera la premiere Ville dans la quelle je me produirai …” Translated: “…After spending too much time in the places in Germany where I have given concerts, I have to go straight to Paris. So here I am for a while longer, torn away from the glowing longing and the great pleasure of hearing you, my dear friend, perform your famous compositions, which all connoisseurs and lovers feel well-founded praise for; I am still deprived of the pleasure of giving you a proof of my feeble ability; but patience, I will hasten my stay in France and England, return to Germany, Kassel will be the first city where I will perform...". Short handwritten note in unknown hand at the top. Handling wear, discolored, slightly fragile, hole at the top edge from opening the seal, some stains, else good condition. Not listed in Codignola “Paganini intimo” (1935) und Neill “Epistolario” (1982). A fine letter between the two great violinists.
Price: $ 4,500 / € 3.750
Marie Antoinette (1755-1793)
Rare Document Signed
Last queen of France before the French Revolution whose public execution by guillotine, along with that of her husband, was the most grisly, visible, and powerful symbol of the political aims of the French Revolution. She was born an Archduchess of Austria, and was the penultimate child and youngest daughter of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Francis I. Highly desirable Document Signed “payez Marie Antoinette". 1 page, 9.25 x 14.5 inch, Versailles, 1788 April 1. As always the first "Marie Antoinette" at the end of the text was written by a secretary. Instructions to her general treasurer, Marc Antoine François Marie Randon de La Tour, to pay out a total of 270 livres from her budget “pour l’Entretennement et nourriture de plusieurs de nos officiers pendant la présente année” an 18 “grands Valets de pied qui ont servi pres de nous pendant le Q[uarti]er de Janvier, Février et Mars”. Boldly signed at the conclusion by Marie Antoinette and countersigned by her secretary Nicolas-Joseph Beaugeard. In 1793, Beaugeard was a conspirator in the failed plot to rescue King Louis XIV. from execution. Mailing folds, minor blemishes expertly repaired, else good condition.
Price: $ 14,400 / € 12.000
Churchill, Winston S. (1874-1965)
Excellent letter signed
Sir Winston Leonard Spencer-Churchill was a British politician, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1940 to 1945 and again from 1951 to 1955. Widely regarded as one of the greatest wartime leaders of the 20th century. Letter signed “Winston S. Churchill”. 1 page, card, 4.5 x 3.5 inch, embossed 105, Mount Street at the top, Mayfair (London) 1904 April 23. Signed by Churchill in dark black ink. To an unknown Sir. In full: “Dear Sir, I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your letter and herewith comply with your request. Yours faithfully”. Fine condition. 105 Mount Street has long been linked to Churchill and provided his first "bachelor pad" residence in the heart of Mayfair. He lived here from 1900 until 1905
Price: $ 2,220 / € 1.850
Planck, Max (1858-1947)
Autograph postcard signed WW II. dated
German theoretical physicist who originated quantum theory, which won him the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1918. Autograph postcard signed “Max Planck”. 1p., card, 5.75 x 4.0 inch, Berlin 1943 July 4. To Georg und Lotte Lenz in Hamburg. Thank you card regarding his 85. Birthday. In German, in full: “Lieber Georg u. liebe Lotte! Den freundlichen Glückwunsch zu meinem 85. Geburtstag habe ich empfangen und sage dafür meinen tiefgefühlten Dank. Herzlich grüßt Euch Euer treuer Onkel.“ Address page with abrasions, handling wear, else good condition. Georg Lenz in Hamburg, son of his friend and distant relative, the Berlin historian Max Lenz (1850-1932).
Price: $ 1,020 / € 850
Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi), Empress (1837-1898)
Handwritten envelope to Emperor Franz Joseph I.
Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary, and many other titles by marriage to Emperor Franz Joseph I. Handwritten envelope “Seiner Majestät Dem Kaiser von Österreich, Wien”. Envelope, 4.5 x 3.75 inch, Gödölö udvar (different hand), no date. Addressed in Sisi’s hand in dark black ink. Verso printed Elisabeth, a fine red wax seal and a Vienna postmark. Slightly discolored, else good condition. Gödöllö Castle, located north-east of Budapest and given to the ruling couple by Count Gyula Andrássy was the Empress's preferred residence.
Price: $ 1,440 / € 1.200
Rudolf (1858-1889)
Early signature matted with photograph
Crown Prince of Austria, the only son and third child of Emperor Franz Joseph I. of Austria and Duchess Elisabeth in Bavaria. He was heir apparent to the imperial throne of the Austro-Hungarian Empire from birth. In 1889, he died in a suicide pact with his mistress Mary Vetsera at the Mayerling hunting lodge. Fine and early ink signature “Rudolf”. Signature from a letter mounted to a small piece of paper, 5.25 x 4.0 inch, no place, 1876. Mounted together with his embossed coat of arms, cut from a letter. In a different hand “Kronprinz von Österreich 1876” below his signature. On verso a note in a different hand and in German regarding the transmission of the signature. Handsomely matted in gray with a paper photograph of Rudolf to an overall of 7.75 x 11.75 inch. Both items removable affixed with photo corners. Fine condition. The date 1876 matches exactly with the type of Rudolf's signature from that time at age 17/18.
Price: $ 720 / € 600
Rudolf (1858-1889)
Autograph letter signed
Crown Prince of Austria, the only son and third child of Emperor Franz Joseph I. of Austria and Duchess Elisabeth in Bavaria. He was heir apparent to the imperial throne of the Austro-Hungarian Empire from birth. In 1889, he died in a suicide pact with his mistress Mary Vetsera at the Mayerling hunting lodge. Autograph letter signed “Rudolf”. 1p., 5.0 x 8.0 inch, (Vienna), no date. A fine handwritten letter to his uncle. In German, in full: "Lieber Onkel! Innigsten Dank für Deine Einladung. Wenn es Dir recht ist, würden wir um ½ 1 Uhr zu Dir kommen. Dein treuer Neffe“. Translated: “Dear Uncle! Thank you very much for your invitation. If you don't mind, we would come to you at 1:30. Your faithful nephew". Horizontal fold, else fine condition. Rare in any form.
Price: $ 1,680 / € 1.400
Andersen, Hans Christian (1805-1875)
Wonderful autograph aphorism signed
Danish author. Although a prolific writer of plays, travelogues, novels, and poems, he is best remembered for his literary fairy tales. His most famous fairy tales include "The Emperor's New Clothes", "The Princess and the Pea", "The Snow Queen” and so on. Autograph aphorism signed “H.C. Andersen”. 1p., 4.0 x 6.5 inch, Dresden, 1846 February 28. In German, in full: “Wenn ich denke an die schönen Stunden in Maxen und Dresden, seufze ich mit dem Tannenbaum - - “vorbei, vorbei, alle Geschichten enden!” Translated: "When I think of the beautiful hours in Maxen and Dresden, I sigh with the Christmas tree - - "over, over, all stories end!". Slightly discolored, else good condition. The owners of the Maxen estate near Pirna, Major Serre and his wife Friederike, were friends with Andersen.
Price: $ 4,080 / € 3.400
Picasso, Pablo (1881-1973)
Hand addressed and signed envelope to his housekeeper
Spanish painter, sculptor, printmaker, ceramicist, stage designer, poet, playwright and one of the greatest and most influential artists of the 20th century. Hand-addressed and signed mailing envelope. Envelope, 5.75 x 4.25 inch, addressed by Picasso to "Madame Inès Sassier, 7 R. des Grands Augustins, Paris -6e As." and signed as part of the return address on the flap: “Envoi Picasso - Mas. N.D. de V. Mougins A(lpes)M(aritimes)”. Postmarked at Cannes 1962, February 5. Minor handling wear, else good condition. In 1936, Picasso had met Inès Sassier and her sister while vacationing and had brought them back to work for him at the Rue de Boétie apartment. Although Inès had left Paris during the war she returned there to work for Picasso as his housekeeper. For more than three decades, she would serve as Picasso's advisor cook, friend and confidant.
Price: $ 1,920 / € 1.600
Mandela, Nelson (1918-2013)
Signed photograph
South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist, who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. Color glossy signed photograph “NMandela 14.3.2001”. 9.5 x 7.0 inch, n.p. A fine half-length photo of Mandela shaking hands with German Chancellor Helmut Kohl during Mandela's trip to Germany in late May 1996, signed in black ballpoint. Reverse bears official text and Federal Government copyright label. In fine condition.
Price: $ 1,045 / € 870
Buchanan, James (1791-1868)
Autograph letter signed (co-signed by Senator S. McKean)
15. President of the United States. Autograph letter signed recommending a Doctor for a Position in the Land Office. Autograph letter signed “James Buchanan”. 1p., bifolium, 8.0 x 9.75 inch, Washington, 1836 December 12, as U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania. Countersigned by Samuel McKean (1787-1841), Pennylvania's second senator. Addressed to Hon. James S. Whitcomb (1795-1852), U.S. senator from Indiana, who had been appointed by President Andrew Jackson as Land Commissioner (1836-41). Buchanan and McKean recommend Dr. William Wallace, whom they believe to be well qualified to be a clerk in the Land office. In full: “We take pleasure in recommending to you the appointment of Dr. William Wallace as a clerk in the Land Office. We believe him to be well qualified for the situations of which he applies. He is the son of a highly respectable citizen of Pennsylvania who has recently removed to this City: and is himself a graduate of the Jefferson Medical College of Philadelphia. His appointment would give satisfaction to many friends." Clearly written in Buchanan's neat hand. Small mounting remnants on integral address leaf, else fine condition.
Price: $ 845 / € 650
Wayne, John (1907-1979)
Signed page from a menu
Marion Mitchell Morrison, better known by his stage name John Wayne, was an American film actor, director, producer, academy award-winner and American icon. A large folio printed page, 11.25 x 15.5 inch, n.p. (Tokyo), heavy paper, signed and inscribed by Wayne in black felt tip pen “Eddie Good Luck John Wayne” and dated 23/3/74 in another hand. Large and impressive signature. The page is for a menu from Maxim's restaurant in the Sony Building, Tokyo, featuring a typically Belle Epoque printed colour image of diners and waiters by the French caricaturist Georges Goursat (Sem). The menu also bears a few other signatures by other unknown individuals. Handling wear, else good condition. Uncommon Wayne autograph.
Price: $ 750 / € 625
Brecht, Bertolt (1898-1956)
Typed letter signed: Stage directions for “The Tutor”
German theatre practitioner, playwright, and poet. Typed letter signed “b”. 1p., 8.25 x 6.0 inch, Berlin, 1950 June 2, on “Berliner Ensemble” stationery. To actor Joseph Noerden. In German: „Lieber Noerden! Ein paar kleine Notierungen! 4.Szene: Bitte nicht die Hand nach Läuffer ausstrecken, wenn Sie am Boden liegen. Das Apfelessen bitte diskreter. Es ist jetzt zu viel. Dann ist es wichtig, dass Sie nicht zu früh aufstehen, sondern erst im letzten Moment, wenn Läuffer von seinem versteckten Annäherungsversuch zurückkommt, hochkommen. 5.Szene: Bitte beim Abgang nicht laut werden. 16.“ Bitte, das Kind nur ganz kurz und zarter wiegen. Sonst ist alles in Ordnung.“ Translated: „Dear Noerden! A few small notes! Scene 4: Please don't reach for Läuffer when you're lying on the ground. Eating apples more discreetly, please. It's too much now. Then it's important that you don't get up too early, but only get up at the last moment, when Läuffer returns from his hidden advance attempt. Scene 5: Please don't raise your voice when leaving. 16.“ Please rock the child very briefly and more gently. Otherwise everything is fine.” Also included is a signed card with a short thank you note by Helene Weigel to Noerden. Mailing fold, punch holes, handling wear, else good condition. Joseph Noerden (1927-1999) was a Luxembourgish actor. In 1949 he was engaged by Bertolt Brecht to work in the newly founded Berliner Ensemble in East Berlin. Here he was also in the play Mr. Puntila and his servant Matti as well as in the premiere of Mother Courage as "Schweizerkas". Bertolt Brecht was considered his most important teacher. The Tutor is the 1950 Adaptation by Brecht, of an 18th-century play by Lenz. The play was Brecht's first production which featured work from the German Classical Era for the Berliner Ensemble. Overall, it was the third production the Berliner Ensemble performed. Brecht himself directed this production. Helene Weigel (1900-1971) was a German actress, artistic director and the second wife of Brecht.
Price: $ 1,200 / € 1.000
Voltaire, François-Marie Arouet (1694-1778)
Letter signed regarding his biblical tragedy “Saul”
François-Marie Arouet known by his nom de plume Voltaire, a French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher famous for his wit, his attacks on the established Catholic Church and Christianity as a whole, and his advocacy of freedom of religion, freedom of speech, and separation of church and state. Letter signed “Voltaire”. 1 page, 7.25 x 3.75 inch, mounted on a nearly similar size of paper, Geneva, 1763 August 13. Written by his secretary Jean-Louis Wagnière and signed at the end by Voltaire. About a forgery of his biblical tragedy "Saul". In French: "Ayant appris qu'on débite à Paris sous mon nom, et sous le titre de Genêve, je ne scais quelle farce intitulée, dit-on, Saül et David; je suis obligé de déclarer, que l'éditeur caloménieux de cette farce abususe de mon nom - qu'on ne connait point a geneve cette rapsodie i qu'un del abus n'y serait pas tolere, et qu'il n'y est pas permis de tromper ainsi le public.” Slightly discolored and handling wear, else good condition. “Saul”, also known as “Saül and David” in later editions, is a prose tragedy in five acts by Voltaire. The play was completed in 1763.
Price: $ 5,400 / € 4.500
Mitchell, Margaret (1900-1949)
Handwritten return address
American author and journalist. One novel by Mitchell was published during her lifetime, the American Civil War-era novel, Gone with the Wind. Handwritten return address, part of an envelope “Mrs. John March 1268 Piedmont Ave. N.E. Atlanta Ga.” 4.25 x 2.0 inch, written by Mitchell in dark black ink. Margaret Mitchell Marsh moved to the Della Manta Apartments at Piedmont Ave. in 1939, shortly before the movie debut of "Gone With the Wind" and lived there until her death Aug. 16, 1949. Handsomely matted in gray with a photograph of M. Mitchell to an overall of 7.75 x 11.75 inch. Both items removable affixed with photo corners. Fine condition.
Price: $ 590 / € 490
Kandinsky, Wassily (1866-1944)
Autograph postcard twice signed “Bauhaus Weimar”
Russian painter and art theorist. Kandinsky is generally credited as one of the pioneers of abstraction in western art. Autograph postcard signed "Kandinsky". Postcard, 5.5 x 3.5 inch, Staatl. Bauhaus Weimar, 1922 August (?) 5, stamp removed. Addressed to Dr. Joachim KIRCHNER in Berlin. Sender information shows the second Kandinsky „signature“. In German, in full: „Sehr geehrter Herr Doctor, vielen Dank für Ihre Karte. Es tut mir sehr leid, dass ich meinen Artikel nicht zum gewünschten Termin senden kann: ich bin tatsächlich mit sehr eiliger Arbeit überlastet. Am 14 d. reisen wir aber zur Ostsee für einen Monat, wo ich tüchtig ausruhen möchte. Würde Ihnen also Ende September od. Anfang Oktober passen? Bitte Grüße von mir Ihrem Herrn Vater u. die Familie Wiedenfeld. Wir grüßen Sie herzlich.“ Translated: “Dear Doctor, Thank you for your card. I'm very sorry that I can't send my article on the requested date: I'm actually overburdened with very urgent work. On 14 we are traveling to the Baltic Sea for a month, where I would like to have a good rest. So would the end of September or the beginning of October suit you? Please give my regards to your father and the Wiedenfeld family. We greet you warmly.” Because of the punch holes the exact date when Kandinsky wrote the card is unclear. The house number in the address was added later in pencil (probably by the Post Organization) and a date with the same pencil is written in the middle of the card - 17/8 which is presumably the day of delivery, August 17. Therefore I think that Kandinsky wrote the card August 5. Punch holes, else fine condition.
Price: $ 4,950 / € 4.125
ABBA (1972-1982)
Vintage signed photograph
Swedish pop group formed by Agnetha Fältskog (1950), Björn Ulvaeus (1945), Benny Andersson (1946), and Anni-Frid Lyngstad (1945). They became one of the most commercially successful acts in the history of popular music. Desirable vintage cardstock promo colour photo, 4.0 x 6.0 inch, n.p. n.d. Signed in blue ballpoint by Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. Handling wear, else fine condition.
Price: $ 1,020 / € 850
Kennedy, Jacqueline (1929-1994)
Typed letter signed with handwritten postscript
First Lady and wife of John F. Kennedy. Typed letter signed “Sincerely Jackie“. 1 page, 5.75 x 7.75 inch, on her personal light blue “1040 Fifth Avenue” stationery, New York 1987 April 14. Jackie sends thanks to Kimon Friar “Dear Kimon”, an Athens professor. With a fine handwritten postscript “with such admiration for your tireless energy and all the noble works you do-”. In full: “Thank you so much for writing me all your news. Also, thank you for sending me the catalogue from Angelos’ show which I am returning to you today. He must have been very touched by your lovely tribute. I remember so well your sending me a copy of your Contemporary Greek Poetry. I remember how moved I was by your poems and writing immediately to tell you so. I regret that the letter never reached you. It is wonderful to hear that The Post war Period is to be published in an expanded form. I have been giving some thought to your reissuing your translation of Elytis and might suggest that you contact Farrar Straus or Eco Press. I think either one would be worth a try. As far as the young Indian publisher is concerned, I cannot find anyone at Doubleday now who remembers his name. This May I will have to spend a considerable amount of time in Boston as well as Washington. You can always call Nancy Tuckerman at 984-7380 as she will know when I will be in the city.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope from Doubleday & Company, Inc. in New York City. Mailing fold, else very fine condition. Nancy Tuckerman was Jackie’s long-time secretary.
Price: $ 1,045 / € 870
Roosevelt, Franklin D. (1882-1945)
Typed letter signed
32. President of the United States. Typed letter signed “Franklin D. Roosevelt”. 1 page, 8.25 x 10.75 inch, Warm Springs, 1927 May 3. On “The Georgia Warm Springs” stationery. Short letter addressed to Mr. Benjamin V. Crowley at Roosevelt & O’Connor in New York City. Blue Roosevelt & O’Connor Broadway. N.Y. stamp at the top. In full: “Dear Mr. Crowley: I enclose copy of a letter to Mr. Prest.” Mailing folds, punch holes, handling wear, else good condition and dark signed with his usual Jet Black India Ink. Comes with a copy of my Franklin D. Roosevelt autograph study.
Price: $ 825 / € 690
Kennedy, John F. (1917-1963)
Signed photograph AS PRESIDENT
35. President of the United States. Excellent matte-finish signed photograph “For Bob Goldberg - with warmest regards from his friend John F. Kennedy”. 8.0 x 10.0 inch, n.p., n.d. Portrait photo of Massachusetts Senator John F. Kennedy taken after being nominated as the Democratic presidential candidate in August of 1960, signed and inscribed in the lower border in dark fountain pen. Inscribed to Robert (Bob) Goldberg, the son of Arthur J. Goldberg. Arthur Joseph Goldberg (1908-1990) - American statesman and jurist who served as the 9th U.S. Secretary of Labor, an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, and the 6th United States Ambassador to the United Nations. Minor handling wear, else fine condition. Although taken in the summer of 1960 by Alfred Eisenstaedt, this was the preferred portrait JFK would sign and give out during the beginning of his administration. Excellent provenance and fine connection to a member of the Kennedy administration and one of the finest signed JFK photos you can hope to find. Comes together with my book “John F. Kennedy – autograph study” - about 90 pages with hundreds of signatures (authentic, secretary, Autopen, stamps, facsimile etc.).
Price: $ 8,250 / € 6.875
Dufy, Raoul (1877-1953)
Typed letter signed with impressive autograph postscript
French Fauvist painter. Typed letter signed “Raoul Dufy”. 1 page, recto and verso, 8.25 x 10.5 inch, Perpignan, 1946 February 24. Addressed to Mr. Roland d’Orgeles in Paris. A fine untranslated typed letter in French with a long handwritten postscript by Raoul Dufy. Mailing fold, handling wear, else good condition.
Price: $ 770 / € 640
Cody, William F. “Buffalo Bill” (1846-1917)
Uncommon signed photograph + additional photo
American scout, bison hunter and showman. Signed photograph, 4.5 x 3.5 inch on the original 6.25 x 5.25 inch photographers mount. Signed in dark black in by Cody “Col Cody In horse pasture Carter Ranch Big Horn County Wyo”. Photograph slightly faded, else good condition. Also included is an amazing photograph of the Carter Mountain Ranch. 11.25 x 3.5 inch on the original 14.0 x 5.5 inch photographers mount. On verso in pencil “Carter Ranch (sheep Mt. in background). Pin holes in all four corners, corner wear, else good condition. JSA Letter of Authenticity included. Uncommon and fine pair of photographs.
Price: $ 1,850 / € 1.540
Elizabeth II., Queen (1926-2022) & Philip, Prince (1921-2021)
Charming signed photograph
Queen of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms from 6 February 1952 until her death in 2022. Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh was the husband of Queen Elizabeth II. Charming attractive matte-finish official royal family portrait. 6.0 x 8.0 inch depicting Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip posing outdoors with their two young children Charles and Anne. Affixed to the original 7.5 x 9.75 inch mount. Signed below in fountain pen “Philip 1954” in Philip’s hand and “Elizabeth R” in Elizabeth’s hand. Foxing and staining to the mount, else good condition.
Price: $ 2,850 / € 2.375
Hirohito, Emperor (1901-1989) & Kojun, Empress (1903-2000)
Scarce oversized formal presentation photographs signed
Emperor of Japan from 1926 to his death in 1989. Following the devastating result of the atomic bombs dropped on Nagasaki and Hiroshima in World War II, he renounced his divinity in favor of a democratic constitutional monarchy. Empress Kōjun, born Princess Nagako was a member of the Imperial House of Japan and the wife of Emperor Hirohito. Incredibly scarce set of vintage matte-finish three-quarter length photographs of Hirohito and Empress Nagako. 8.5 x 12.75 inch, n.p., n.d. (about 1957), beautifully signed in thick black ink in Japanese by the emperor and empress. Inserted with photo corners in the original presentation folders, bearing an embossed gold Imperial Seal of Japan (called the Chrysanthemum Seal) on the front. Photographs in very fine condition, folders with minor handling and corner wear. Few Hirohito/ Kojun signed photographs are made available to the collecting public, particularly those of this quality and size. A wonderful pair and one of the finest you can hope to find.
Price: $ 11,550 / € 9.625
Churchill, Winston S. (1874-1965)
Early autograph letter signed
Sir Winston Leonard Spencer-Churchill was a British politician, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1940 to 1945 and again from 1951 to 1955. Widely regarded as one of the greatest wartime leaders of the 20th century. Autograph letter signed “Winston S. Churchill”. 1 page, 5.5 x 7.0 inch, bifolium, blind embossed “Villa Kazbeck Cannes (A.M.) stationery, 1903 April 12. To an unknown Sir, in full: “Dear Sir, It is with much regret that after consideration, wh I fear has caused undue delay. I find myself unable on account of other engagements and press of work to accept the most kind invitation, wh you have tendered me. Yours very truly.” Mailing fold, minor mounting residue on verso, closed pinholes top and bottom, handling wear, else good to fine condition.
Price: $ 3,850 / € 3.500
Einstein, Albert (1879-1955)
Humorous typed letter signed re: chocolates and limit speed
A German-born theoretical physicist. He developed the general theory of relativity, one of the two pillars of modern physics. Best known for his mass-energy equivalence formula E = mc2 - "the world's most famous equation”. Received the 1921 Nobel Prize in Physics. Fantastic typed letter signed “A. Einstein”. 1p., 8.5 x 11.0 inch, Princeton, 1949 March 28. On his blind embossed “A. Einstein 112, Mercer Street, Princeton, New Jersey stationery”, “erh. (received) 30/3” in pencil at the top, signed in dark black ink. Addressed to Mr. L. Manners in New York. In German, in full: “Sehr geehrter Herr Manners, Ihr Brief war wirklich erquickend. Man fühlt die freundliche Gesinnung und freut sich. Was nun die von Ihnen mit so viel Recht gepriesenen Pralinen anbelangt, so ist der Vergleich mit der Grenzgeschwindigkeit wohl berechtigt. Ich habe es konstatiert indem ich unter Missachtung strengster medizinischer Vorschrift eines aus der Menge probierte. Es ist gut, wenn man etwas produzieren kann, das dauernd des allgemeinen Interesses gewiss ist; mit dem Gehirn allein lässt sich das nicht zuwege bringen“. Translated: „Dear Mr. Manners, Your letter was really refreshing. One feels the friendly attitude and is happy about it. As far as the chocolates you so rightly praised, the comparison with the limit speed is probably justified. I found it out by trying one of the crowd, disregarding the strictest medical regulations. It's good when you can produce something that is always of general interest; that cannot be achieved with the brain alone.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. Mailing folds, else fine condition. Beautiful and humorous letter from the great scientist!
Price: $ 11,550 / € 9.625
Elizabeth II., Queen (1926-2022)
Autograph note signed matted with photograph
Queen of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms from 6 February 1952 until her death in 2022. Autograph note signed “Elizabeth R”. 1p., 4.75 x 3.75 inch, red embossed Buckingham Palace card. N.p. (London), n.d. In full: “To Madame Isabelle (Fowler) from Elizabeth R”. Excellent provenance: The family of Madame Isabelle Fowler, who assisted the Royal couturier Sir Norman Hartnell in making the dress the Queen wore at her Coronation on June 2nd 1953. Fine condition. Handsomely matted in gray with a paper photograph of the Queen to an overall of 7.75 x 11.75 inch. Both items removable affixed with photo corners. Fine display item with excellent provenance.
Price: $ 1,595 / € 1.330
Pahlavi, Mohammad Reza (1919-1980)
Card signed
The last Shah (King) of the Imperial State of Iran. Vintage postcard signed “M. R. Pahlavi”. Postcard, 5.75 x 4.25 inch, Badgastein (Stubnerkogel), Austria, n.d. (1965), fine blue ink signature on verso of the postcard. With old adhesive residue on the image side, else fine condition. Pahlavi was a guest in Badgastein in 1965.
Price: $ 1,045 / € 870