Lot 6
  • 6

# - Alexandra, Queen.

Estimate
1,500 - 2,000 GBP
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Description

  • Series of 16 autograph letters signed ("Alexandra", "A") as Princess of Wales, to Lady Rosebery
concerning the Princess of Wales Branch of the National Aid Society and related philanthropic activities, discussing the provision and equipping of a yacht, fundraising especially through benefit concerts, lobbying, the management of the central committee, and publicity activities including the casting of a medal and production of a print of a committee meeting, 63 pages, 8vo, mostly from Marlborough House, Pall Mall, 6 February 1885 to 23 February 1887 (where dated)

Condition

Condition is described in the main body of the catalogue, where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

"...I am sure Sir Allan Young's going out in his yacht & steaming between the two Hospitals is the most excellent plan..."

Princess Alexandra was a pioneer of the modern concept of royalty, being one of the first members of the British royal family to see philanthropic work as central to her public role. This series of letters shows her involvement in the provision of nurses and other medical aid for war service in Egypt and Sudan during the Mahdist uprising. Her correspondent was Hannah Primrose, Countess of Rosebery, the daughter and heir of Mayer de Rothschild and wife of the 5th Earl of Rosebery, the future Prime Minister. She was a great philanthropist and acted as Treasurer of the Princess of Wales Branch.