Uncommon partly-printed vellum DS, in French, beautifully signed “Bonaparte,” one page, 16 x 14, dated the 10th year of the French Republic. Military commission appointing Brigadier General Nogues to the general captain of Martinique and St. Lucia. Signed at the bottom in black ink by Napoleon, and countersigned by Minister of the Navy and the Colonies Admiral Denos Decres, and Secretary of State Hugues-Bernard Maret. Impressively cloth matted and framed to an overall size of 24.5 x 22.5 Intersecting folds, scattered light creases and ripples, and scattered mild toning and soiling, otherwise fine condition. The embossed paper seal is toned, but crisp and intact.
This 1801 document dates to a period in French history when Napoleon's goal was to reestablish the former French Empire and bring the country back to glory. The 1801 Peace of Amiens had ended the fighting with Britain, and Britain returned all the French territories in the Caribbean except Trinidad. With that, Napoleon set about appointing military commanders in the region. But in 1803, Britain again fought France, and English forces reclaimed areas including St. Lucia and Martinique. By the end of 1803, the remaining French left with 18,000 refugees as the British bombarded the coast. Nogues, commandant of the principal fortress of the island whom Napoleon had appointed general captain via this document, refused to surrender. The ensuing battle resulting in the death of 20 British officers and men, and another 110 wounded. An unusual format with an outstanding vignette! Oversized. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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