Napoleon III Letter Signed as Emperor of the French to the President of the Dominican Republic, Dated Saint-Cloud, November 7, 1860
Fine official letter signed, “Napoléon,” as Emperor of the French, dated Saint-Cloud, November 7, 1860. The letter, entirely in a bold and elegant secretarial hand, opens in grand imperial style: “Napoléon, par la grâce de Dieu et la volonté nationale, Empereur des Français, au Président de la République Dominicaine.” Napoleon acknowledges receipt of a letter expressing condolences on the death of his uncle, Prince Jérôme Napoléon, who had died on June 24, 1860. He thanks the President for his sympathy and assures him of France’s esteem and friendship, closing formally, “Votre bon Ami, Napoléon.”
A handsome example of Second Empire diplomatic correspondence, written from the imperial residence at Saint-Cloud during a pivotal year in Napoleon III’s reign. In 1860 France stood at the height of its European influence following the Italian campaign, and formal exchanges with Caribbean republics such as the Dominican Republic reflect France’s continued global diplomatic engagement.
The document remains in good condition, with expected fold lines from mailing, scattered light toning, and minor handling wear. The signature is bold and well-contrasted.
Napoleon III (20 April 1808 – 9 January 1873) was President of France from 1848 to 1852 and then Emperor of the French from 1852 until his deposition in 1870. He was the first president, second emperor, and last monarch of France. He created the Second French Empire in 1852 and this period saw rapid industrialization in France, rapid expansion of infrastructure and rise of French influence in world politics after several decades of instability. He was the son of Louis Bonaparte, King of Holland and the nephew of Napoleon, Emperor of the French. As head of state of France for 22 years, he was the longest-reigning French head of state since the end of the ancien régime.
With One Of A Kind Collectibles COA.