Architect (1759–1828) who designed the US Capitol and later served as the first superintendent of the Patent Office. ALS, one page both sides, 7.25 x 8.75, August 7, 1790. Letter to Italian explorer Count Paolo Andreani. In part: “The Barometer was sent to the German the day you left Philadelphia, and I often called upon him to urge its completion, but the poor man remains so extremely ill that I am afraid he is going to take a longer journey soon than you are; by way of the Styx. I have not been able to get it quite finished, but as you told me you could manage to fix it yourself...I wish the Execution may please you…There is nothing to pay for it, and I only lament that it was not in my power to get it complete.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds. This letter dates to the most significant period of Thornton’s architectural career—in 1789, he won a competition for the design of the Library Company of Philadelphia's new hall, and in 1793 his design was chosen as the basis for the US Capitol. RR Auction COA.
