Fabled queen of Louis XVI of France (1755–1793) whose public execution, along with that of her husband, was the most grisly, visible, and powerful symbol of the political aims of the French Revolution. Manuscript DS, in French, signed “Payez, Marie Antoinette,” one page, 9.5 x 14.25, July 1, 1786. Document concerning a payment for one of her “apartment floor shiners.” In part (translated): “ From our House and Treasury Mr. Marc-Antoine François Marie Randon de La Tour, we want and ask you that from this denier which is funded by state order for upkeep and food for several of our officers for current year, you pay cash to Jean Baptiste Henry [floor] shiner of our apartment the amount of two hundred pounds that we have granted him for this salary as much for him as for the one he has employed to scrub and clean the parquet of our apartment during a quarter of April, last May and June and you reporting the present with receipt to be sufficient. The amount of two hundred pounds will be passed and allotted as an expense from your accounts by our dear and beloved general, accountant to the King our very honored Lord and spouse in Paris to the both of whom we ask and nonetheless also ask to do as such without difficulties.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by the queen. In very good to fine condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature, scattered creases and edge wear, and mild toning. A very interesting example of the extravagance which contributed to the queen’s unpopular image and eventual downfall. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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