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Autograph endorsement in French, signed "Antoinette," penned in the left margin of a financial memorandum, one page, 7.5 x 10, July 1779. Written five years into Marie Antoinette's reign as Queen of France and only months after the birth of her first child, the document was submitted for the queen's approval, detailing the financial terms of a proposed transaction and requesting her decision. Marie Antoinette renders her ruling in a handwritten endorsement to the left margin, writing: "Mr. Berthier will make the same arrangements and schedule as Mr. Giac with Mr. Chateaugiron."
The accompanying financial memorandum details the proposed transfer of a government office, setting forth the purchase price, payment schedule, and competing financing arrangements before seeking the queen's approval. It reads, in part (translated): “Price of the acquisition of M. Giac on M. Chateaugiron—290,000. Schedule of Payments: Before the end of January 1774, 6 months—90,000. During the year 1774—18 months—100,000. In the first 3 months 1779—21 months—100,000. Total: 290,000. M. Giac also promised half of the salary until the payment of the 90,000. That is to say, for 6 months this object is valued at 4,000. M. Bertier has offered the same arrangements. M. Giac deserves money (immediately available) which is indispensable to him to satisfy the arrangement. M. Bertier offered him some, while deducting the interest. The deduction of this interest would increase the price of the charge by 18,900. M. Bertier, being less concerned with financial considerations, is willing to accommodate. M. Giac, not wanting to go against the outline which the Queen's letter provides, has honored M. Seulray. Decision of July 1779. Her majesty is asked to decide if she will permit M. Bertier to give M. Giac 294,000 (immediately available) without deducting interest.”
Attractively mounted, cloth-matted and framed with an engraved portrait to an overall size of 22.75 x 18.5. In fine condition, with intersecting folds (one vertical fold passing through a single letter of the signature), scattered creases, and a bit of light soiling. An exceedingly desirable document from one of Europe’s most infamous royals.
Provenance: Bonhams, Fine Books & Manuscripts, Lot 268, September 2014.
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