First wife of Napoleon and thus the first empress of the French (1763-1814). ALS in French, signed “Josephine,” one page, 6 x 7.75, January 16, 1807. Letter to Martial Noel Pierre Daru, written on paper with an attractive decorative embossed border. In part (translated): "I have received with pleasure the notes you sent me about the plants of Pomerania and the Berlin Garden…I have been assured that there were also very rare plants in the gardens of the Elector of Hesse and in those of Hanover. I think these collections are not unworthy of our attention…Mr. Denon…reserved some things for me, such as cameos and turquoises. These latter have no value except to be made into ornaments for pretty ladies, to whom their color is wonderfully becoming. The Empress is no more devoid of a little coquetry than any other woman, but as the Emperor is her only object, she may well be pardoned." In fine condition. Accompanied by a complete French transcription and English translation. Josephine was a passionate amateur botanist, and famously developed exotic gardens on the grounds of the Chateau de Malmaison outside Paris; the property achieved enduring fame for its unsurpassed rose gardens. Josephine is rare in autograph letters, and this example boasts especially desirable content.
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