First lady, wife of John Quincy Adams. Superb original handwitten poem, “The Rose,” on both sides of a cream 6 x 7.5 sheet, signed “Louisa Catherine Adams” and dated February 8, 1829. The five-stanza poem reads, in part: “The Rose, the rose that budding blows,/Is beauty’s infancy./The Rose, the rose expansive glows,/In beauty’s brilliancy…. The Rose, the rose in blooming pride/Lives but one little day./The Rose, the rose’s odours bide/While beauty’s charms decay…. The Rose/the rose shall fragrance breathe/When death itself is oer/Thus man shall wear the immortal wreath/That blooms to die no more.” The elegant, simple charm of the text is beautifully complemented by an exquisitely hand-painted rose at the top of the first page, signed with the tiny decorative initials “A.S.A.” The initials almost certainly indicate Abigail Smith Adams—either the former first lady (and Louisa’s mother-in-law), or, perhaps more likely, Louisa’s sister-in-law (John Q’s sister) of the same name. Hand-painted stationery of this sort was a characteristic token of affection in the nineteenth century. Much in the same manner as the embroidered samplers and other needlework of the day, such an item not only served as a personal and intimate gift to a loved one, but also showcased the peculiarly “ladylike” skills of the giver. A few faint, minor spots of mild toning and soiling, otherwise fine, bright condition. An unusually lovely relic from this early first lady! Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
