Lot 139
  • 139

Camden, Sir William

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 USD
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Description

  • Autograph letter signed ("William Camden Clarenceux"), to Sir Michael Stanhope
  • paper
On the genealogy of the Lords Berkeley, one page, folio (320 x 205 mm), Chislehurst, 7 August [1615?], integral autograph address panel, docketed by addressee, remains of red wax seal impression; seal tear professionally restored, strengthened. Blue cloth folder and slipcase.

Catalogue Note

A letter from the great historian and herald on the appropriate use of genealogy. Camden advises Sir Michael Stanhope (1549–1622) on the wording of an epitaph for Henry, 7th Baron Berkeley, and cautions him against overemphasising his descent from the Mowbrays, Dukes of Norfolk. Although Berkeley had died in 1613 this letter dates from after 13 April 1615, when Berkeley's grandson and heir, George, 8th Baron Berkeley, married Stanhope's daughter Elizabeth. Their wedded status is referred to in the letter.   

We have no record of any letter by Camden having appeared at auction since 1968.