French philosopher and author (1694–1778), born François-Marie Arouet, whose wit, literary skill, and originality of thought made him one of the most distinctive and influential figures of the Enlightenment. An ardent activist and defender of civil liberties, he wrote prolifically, producing scores of important works on philosophy, history, and science, and satirizing religion, politics, and social institutions. His most enduring work, the “picaresque” novel Candide (1759), has attained a secure place in the canon of Western literature. LS in French, signed “Voltaire,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 6 x 7.5, February 6, 1767. Voltaire writes from Ferney to an unspecified gentleman. In part (translated): “When you can, you would please us very much, to fight through our awful snow with forty bottles of excellent wine that you could send through the widow Rameau to Nyon where I would have them picked up. I am more tired of my Siberia than I am of the war of Geneva. According to all the Russians who came home, winter is worse than Petersburg. It is too much of a price to pay for four months of a nice summer. What is the pleasure of the prettiest aspect of the world when I feel deprived of the view. In other words, I would rather come to Dijon to drink your wine. Don't believe that our Genevese war is a pure joke; moreover, we have no trade with Savoy, Lyon, nor Switzerland, we have to bring everything here at a great cost. The bigger our house, the more we suffer. You sense, sir, how much I am flattered to have the honor of having you as a colleague, but between us (allow me to tell you in secret) we have a strange associate, It is a bloody trick that was done to the academy, I don't believe that it has to stand for it. Above all, it is a shame that the nomination of a man of your esteem be in such an insulting period. An appointed jailer is not made to be an academy member. All of the etiquette rules are damaged. I take the liberty to speak to you with the trust inspired by my respectful affection for you. You will not reveal my identity....” Please note that while the handwriting in the body of the letter is very similar to that of the signature, and we believe there is a strong possibility that it, too, is in Voltaire’s hand, we have taken a cautious course and are offering the letter as an LS only. Faint intersecting mailing folds (vertical fold to one letter of signature), otherwise fine, bright condition. A beautifully preserved example! Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
