American writer and diplomat (1819–1891) who, after a long and successful career as a poet, satirist, and essayist, served as minister to the court of Spain. ALS signed “J. R. Lowell,” one page, 4.5 x 7, black-bordered personal letterhead, May 28, 1885. Letter to an unidentified gentleman. In full: “Permit me to thank you for your very kind note which gave me real pleasure. I venture to ask your acceptance of a photograph, which, I think, looks more like me than the hunchback in your book.” Mild soiling and a few creases, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by an unsigned carte-de-visite photo of Lowell by J. E. Tilton and Co. of Boston. Lowell’s second wife Frances, had died on February 19, 1885, while they were still living abroad after he served as Minister to England. During the 1880s he published several collections of political essays and poetry. RR Auction COA.
