Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

Lot #495
Gustave Eiffel Letter Signed

Refuting criticism of the iconic Eiffel Tower project: "Since the beginning of the work of the tower at the Champ de Mars, either during the building of the foundations, or during the assembly, no single accident has occurred that resulted in any deaths"

This lot has closed

Estimate: $4000+
Sell a Similar Item?
Refer Collections and Get Paid
Share:  

Description

Refuting criticism of the iconic Eiffel Tower project: "Since the beginning of the work of the tower at the Champ de Mars, either during the building of the foundations, or during the assembly, no single accident has occurred that resulted in any deaths"

LS signed “G. Eiffel,” two pages on two adjoining sheets, 5.25 x 8.5, personal letterhead, December 24, 1887. Letter to the ‘editor-in-chief’ of the Figaro newspaper during the early stages of the construction of the Eiffel Tower, making explicit reference to it. In part (translated): "Allow me to have recourse to your kindness to ask you to make known to the public that since the beginning of the work of the tower at the Champ de Mars, either during the building of the foundations, or during the assembly, no single accident has occurred that resulted in any deaths. The only seriously injured person we had was able to resume work…I count on the impartiality of the journalists who have misled on this subject to insert the present rectification to which I attach an importance that everyone will understand." An autograph addition by Eiffel at the bottom of the first page directs the letter to the editor of Figaro. In fine condition. During the construction of the Eiffel Tower there was much public consternation about the possible death toll amongst workers on the project. Letters by Eiffel that refer to his most famous building are surprisingly rare.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts
  • Dates: #618 - Ended October 13, 2021





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for $250.00

*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.