Haitian-born American ornithologist and artist (1785–1851) whose monumental pictorial studies of the birds and quadrupeds of North America take a place among the most distinguished accomplishments in the history of zoology and natural history illustration. Fine and interesting ALS, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 8 x 10, August 22, 1830. Audubon writes from Manchester, England to his son Victor, discussing business and artistic matters related to his Birds of America, the recent Revolution in France, and mentioning Lafayette, Wellington, and “the present Monarch of England ... [whose] Consort [Queen Charlotte] has sent me her patronage anew.” In part: “Our object is not altogether a Journey of pleasure, my business in a great measure requires it and I thought a well fit opportunity to shew the country to your Mamma at this pleasantest part of the year in England. My subscribers are glad to see my face from time to time and I am glad to see their money—I am anxious to augment their number and this can be done by travelling and letting the world know that I am in the Land of the living.... Your Mamma wrote to say that we were not in France during the late Revolution—a Revolution of the noblest kind ever performed and one which I think will teach Crowned Heads to take care of themselves and not to trample down their Subjects.... The 19th No. [of Birds of America] is engraved and I long to see the 20th finished. It will compleat the 1st Volume which of itself will be a beacon of my existence. I have sent 8 oil Pictures to the Birmingham Exhibition....” In very good condition, with light wrinkling, faint folds touching signature, a few small stains to text, chip to top edge of pages touching a few words, and seal-related tear and small loss to final page affecting a few words. The writing is dark and clear throughout, and the signature is large and distinct. LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
