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Lot #377
Leo Tolstoy Autograph Letter Signed on the Revolutionary Movement in Georgia

"You will oblige me not to speak of it": Tolstoy's cautious 1905 letter on Georgia's revolution

Estimate: $8000+

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Server Time: 5/19/2026 12:29:46 PM EDT
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Description

"You will oblige me not to speak of it": Tolstoy's cautious 1905 letter on Georgia's revolution

ALS in French, signed “Leon Tolstoy,” one page, 4.25 x 6.5, February 8, 1905. Handwritten letter from the early days of unrest in the Russian Empire, sending one of his many visitors a postscript to the topics discussed during a visit concerning the revolutionary movement in Georgia. After the visit, Tolstoy remembered that a correspondence he had written about the events in Georgia could jeopardize the cause, and he therefore asked the recipient to keep silent about it. He writes, in full (translated): "The idea came to me after your departure that correspondence on the movement taking place in Georgia, especially from me, could jeopardize the cause. You will oblige me not to speak of it.” In fine condition, with light creasing and some small stains.

In his diary, Tolstoy noted the visit of the Georgian revolutionary M. K. Kipiani on January 29, 1905, who informed Tolstoy about the widespread anti-government opposition in Georgia and the people's takeover of government affairs. Besides working on several books, Tolstoy was particularly occupied at that time with his general critique of the government, 'Edinoe na Potrebu,' which was also published in English that same year ('The One Thing Needful').

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