ALS in French, signed “Marie Antoinette,” one page, 4.5 x 7, August 1. Letter to her brother-in-law King Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies, the husband of her sister Marie Caroline. In full (translated): “I am very grateful, my dear brother, for the details you have sent me about the terrible accident which still makes me shudder; I hope it will lead my sister to take all the precautions necessary for her. Accept all my thanks and assurance of the very sincere friendship with which I am, my dear brother, your very affectionate sister.” Includes the original transmittal envelope retaining its red wax seal, addressed in Marie Antoinette’s own hand (translated): “To my Brother, Cousin, and Brother-in law, the King of Naples.” In fine condition, with central vertical and horizontal folds.
Marie Antoinette's older sister, Maria Carolina, married Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies in 1768; the sisters were extremely close throughout their entire lives, and Maria Carolina looked upon Marie Antoinette as her favorite sister. This relationship helped to shape European politics for some time—she saw to it that they supported the French monarchy once revolution broke out, and after Marie Antoinette was executed she even refused to speak the language. Letters by Marie Antoinette are excessively scarce—far more so than documents—and this is a supremely appealing example in its condition and intriguing content.
