French military officer (1859–1935) whose central role in the Dreyfus Affair, the most sensational cause célèbre in the final years of the 19th century, thrust him into the international spotlight. In 1894, Dreyfus, a Jewish captain in the French army, was tried and convicted for treason on evidence that turned out to be inconclusive at best. Discovering the murky circumstances—the recklessness of the French government in pursuing a speedy conviction, the sloppy procedure of the court-martial—author Emile Zola wrote his famous open letter, “J’Accuse!,” laying bare the entire disgraceful affair. Zola was convicted of libel and fled to England, though he returned to France in time to witness the fall of the government and Dreyfus’ release following an overturned second conviction. Scarce matte-finish 3.25 x 5.25 bust-length postcard photo, signed in ink in the blank lower margin “A. Dreyfus.” Subtle bend to background of image, otherwise very fine, fresh, bright condition. Quite uncommon in signed images, particularly in examples of this superb quality! R&R COA.
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