Wife of Napoleon and Empress of France, born Joséphine de Beauharnais (1763–1814), who married the general in 1796 and, infertile and unable to produce an heir, was divorced from him in 1810. LS in French, signed “Josephine,” one page, 7 x 6.25, December 16, 1813. Josephine writes from Malmaison to the Monsieur le Comte, director of the Postal Administration. In part (translated): “I ask a favor on behalf of Monsieur Dolly, whose petition I enclose. He has been recommended to me … and I would be charmed if you could find an opportunity to be useful to him….” Matted with a color portrait to an overall size of 18.5 x 13.25. Intersecting folds, a touch of mild scattered soiling and light haloing to first few lines of text, otherwise fine, clean condition. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
