British soldier and statesman (1769–1852) who earned immortality for his stunning defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo and who later served in the British government, including a brief tenure as Prime Minister. Ink signature, “Your most obedient servant, Wellington,” on a pale blue 4.5 x 2 slip clipped from the close of a letter. Accompanied by a finely woven cotton or linen handkerchief with an early envelope bearing the caption “Wellington’s handkerchief” and a separate handwritten note: “Handkerchief of the Great Duke of Wellington, taken from his satchel.” The items are matted and framed together with an original engraved invitation from Wellington’s funeral service at St. Paul’s Cathedral and a period portrait engraving to an overall size of 21.5 x 17.5. In fine condition, with horizontal fold and mild wrinkling to signed slip and scattered staining to handkerchief. R&R COA.
