Became official executioner of Paris in 1778 was also known as "the" executioner of the French Revolution, who performed 2918 executions, including Louis XVI, Georges Danton, Camille Desmoulins, and Maximilian de Robespierre. The Queen, Marie Antoinette, was executed by his son Henri. ALS in French, signed “Sanson,” one page, 7 x 9.25, February 17, 1790. A letter dealing with his own trial, brought about by accusations by Gorsas. In full (translated): “I have the honor to send you the issues which are treating us the worst still. You see that this man proposes not to leave it at that; you see also how he despises the judgments pronounced against him. I beg of you not to help him escape the magistrates. The way he is using to prevent public notice, the position he took towards the kindness they wanted to show him. Would you please also, Sir, describe to them the sacrifice that I was making in [illegible] public notice which is for me of the utmost consequence since everybody is expecting it. In not making public notice, I remain accused in the mind of all the people. I also beg of you, Sir, to assure them that it was on their behalf that I had agreed not to public notice. This also in consideration for you who had promised it. But? The matter cannot stand delay any longer. At last, Sir, my observations are only made in the intent that nothing escapes you since you have so many affairs.” In very good condition, with several diagonal creases, scattered toning and soiling, heavier at edges, and some light wrinkling. RRAuction COA.
