- 137
Voltaire, Francois-Marie Arouet
Estimate
2,500 - 3,500 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- ink and paper
Letter signed ("Voltaire"), three pages (9 1/8 x 7 1/4 in.; 232 x 184 mm), "Chateau de Ferney," 8 December 1767, to the Seigneury of Montbeliard. Light damp stain on the margin without reaching the text.
Provenance
Dr. Max Thorek (Ink stamp)
Literature
The letter is published in: Louis Nicolardo, Menage et Finances de Voltaire, Pairs: Dentu, 1854. p. 188-189. The Archives inventory notes that between 1767 and 1772, income was paid to Voltaire
Condition
Light damp stain on the margin without reaching the text.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
Interesting letter, written by his loyal assistant Wagniere, in which Voltaire claims money that the seigneury of Montbeliard owes him. He rejects the sum Mr. Jeanmaire and Surleau, Finances Intendants of the seigneury, proposed to him.
After giving them precise calculations about what he already received and what they still owe him, Voltaire complains about his old age, his present poverty, all his debts, and the nieces and nephews he has to take care of. The facts are slightly different. Voltaire was more than wealthy. But, at the end of 1767, his relationship with his niece, Madame Denis, was complicated. After a huge quarrel, he sent her from his house in Ferney. To protect Madame Denis's honor, he spread the rumor that he was ruined. The letter points out precisely the interest, even in the tiniest details, that the great Sage of Ferney put in his house and business.