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Notorious French novelist and playwright (1740-1814) whose violent sexual escapades and depravity-infused works gave rise to the word 'sadism.' ALS in French, signed “de Sade,” one page, 6.5 x 8.5, April 6, 1790. Handwritten letter to "Monsieur Gauffridi," in part (translated): "I am informing you, my dear Monsieur Gauffridi, that at last I am free and by means of a judgement rendered, the administration of my property is annulled, I alone now enjoy it, I alone now manage it. It will be only with me that you will do business; but before a thousand explanations, before any details, as the first thing is to eat…I owe about fourteen livres which has been advanced to me in order to begin to live, I beg of you to send me a letter quickly containing a thousand crowns (3,000 francs) at least, which sum which will enable me to leave you in complete peace until the month of July, a period when most likely I shall go to my country place. Not having had the guidance of my affairs, I do not not know how to thank you enough for the care you have taken with them. I do not write much but it is urgent and I urge you to make haste about this matter."
He goes on to itemize 3,000 francs worth of his debts, "To those who have been good enough to give me money with which to live—900, Note of honor drawn on the 1st of May—500, To live until July—1600," and requests that Gauffridi "send this sum with the greatest speed possible." In fine condition, with an "Autograph Collection of Dr. Max Thorek" stamp at the top.
The Marquis de Sade had just been released from the Charenton insane asylum after more than a decade of confinement, and here writes to Gaspard Gaufridy, his family friend and lawyer who managed the finances of his estates at Mazan, Saumane, Arles, and La Coste. Having written prolifically while imprisoned, de Sade launched his career as a writer, anonymously publishing Justine, or The Misfortunes of Virtue, in 1791, followed by several more works in the Justine and Juliette series. In the autumn of 1799, Napoleon staged his coup d'etat and would later order de Sade's arrest as part of a crackdown on immorality, returning him to confinement at the insane asylum Charenton, where he would spend the rest of his days.
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