MANUSCRIPT, RARE 18TH CENTURY ROYAL, CHARLES, Prince of LORRAINE AUTOGRAPH LETTER, WITH SWEDISH ROYAL PROVENANCE

Leans Gallery

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Since 1949 – 07846710760

Royal Autographs: King Charles XIV Jean of Sweden & Prince of Lorraine

Rare 18th & 19th Century European Royal Manuscripts

An exceptional and museum-quality pairing of two authentic royal documents, spanning over a century of European history and connecting French, Swedish, and Napoleonic-era nobility.

This rare offering brings together two original manuscripts of royal provenance, each signed and dated, representing one of the most fascinating dynastic transitions in European history.

Document I – Charles XIV Jean (Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte)

Date: 4 April 1816

Place: Stockholm

Signature: “Votre bien affectionné Charles Jean”

Status at the time: Crown Prince of Sweden

Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte rose from French Revolutionary general and Marshal of France under Napoleon to become King of Sweden and Norway in 1818. This signature dates from his transitional period, five years before ascending the throne, making it particularly desirable to collectors.

The Bernadotte dynasty continues to rule Sweden today, adding lasting dynastic importance to this autograph.

Document II – Prince of Lorraine Letter

Date: 9 April 1723

Place: Meudon, France

Language: French

Content: Formal court correspondence expressing gratitude, loyalty, and service

This original 18th-century letter bears the elegant script and refined closing typical of aristocratic correspondence of the Ancien Régime, linking to one of Europe’s most powerful noble houses prior to the French Revolution.

Condition:

Both documents show authentic age-related characteristics consistent with their periods:

Natural foxing, toning, and fold lines

Strong, legible ink

Clear and well-preserved signatures

Bernadotte autograph mounted on period paper with later identifying notes

Overall condition is excellent for age, with no losses to text or signatures.

Historical Importance:

Connects pre-Revolutionary France to post-Napoleonic Europe

Illustrates Bernadotte’s extraordinary ascent from commoner to monarch

Represents two major European royal houses

Ideal for collectors of royal autographs, Napoleonic history, European monarchy, and manuscript material

Most objects sold in our gallery are antiques, vintage or used; therefore, they will show signs of being antique, vintage or used. There may be signs of scratches, discolouration, chips, cracks, wear and tear, unknown manufacturers and/or patterns. Please see the photographs as they form part of the description.  Overseas buyers in some countries may have to pay any import duties, taxes, or fees that may apply. All items are meticulously wrapped and prepared for both UK and international shipping.