Lot #5056

Grigori Rasputin Rare Autograph Letter Signed: "Help out. She is very poor"

Description

The mystical Rasputin sends a plea for aid: "Help out. She is very poor"

Russian mystic and faith healer (1869–1916) who insinuated himself into the Russian royal family when he 'healed' the young Tsarevich Alexei's hemophilia in 1905. From that point, his influence on the Romanovs grew ever greater, and his sway over the Empress Alexandra, who believed that God spoke to her through him, was especially powerful. In the waning days of Imperial Russia, he was viewed by the Russian nobility as increasingly dangerous and assassinated in a legendary scheme involving poison, disguises, and multiple gunshots. Rare ALS in Russian, signed “Grigory,” one page, 5.25 x 8.25, no date but circa 1913. Handwritten letter by the influential holy man, requesting aid for an impoverished woman. In part (translated): "Dear Sweety, help out. She is very poor. Very sorry." Rasputin draws his usual cross at the top of the letter, a mark suggesting that he is a mouthpiece of God. In fine condition, with scattered small stains.

Rasputin's scandalous and sinister reputation, fueled by rumors of debauchery and manipulation, significantly undermined public trust in the Tsarist government. His close ties to the Romanov family, especially his influence over Tsarina Alexandra, were seen as emblematic of the regime's corruption and incompetence. This widespread disillusionment with the monarchy contributed to the growing unrest that culminated in the Russian Revolution and the overthrow of the House of Romanov shortly after Rasputin's assassination. Rasputin's autograph remains rare in any form.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Remarkable Rarities
• Dates: September 04, 2024 - September 28, 2024

This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for $300.00

*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.