Manuscript DS, in French and Arabic, signed “Bonaparte,” one page, 9 x 13.75, June 30, 1799. A document from the Divan member in Cairo, Egypt, addressed to "general en chef Bonaparte," boldly signed at the center by Napoleon using his surname; this is one of the most complete, legible "Bonaparte" signatures we have ever encountered. The document pertains to Napoleon's request for the records of an interrogation of an Arab named Muustapha who had been arrested for violating passport regulations; the Divan claimed that Muustapha was innocent and sought his release. In very good to fine condition, with light creasing, soiling, and intersecting folds. Accompanied by a related letter signed by an aide, containing the requested account of the interrogation.
This interesting bilingual document dates to Napoleon's campaign in Egypt and Syria, which he proclaimed to 'defend French trade interests' and to establish 'scientific enterprise' in the region. One of the campaign's enduring legacies was discovery of the Rosetta Stone on July 15, 1799—mere days after the present document—inspiring a burst of Egyptomania across Europe.
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