Henri d'ARTOIS, Count of CHAMBORD / Signed Autograph Letter / Venice / Souvenir

  
Autographed letter signed "Henri" to Aimé Marie Gaspard de Clermont-Tonnerre Venice, February 20, 1/4 in-8°, in black ink. Autographed envelope included (by messenger), wax seal with royal arms. A beautiful letter from the Count of Chambord to one of his most loyal legitimist friends. "I thank you, my dear duke, for the news you have just sent me about the new families of this beautiful map of France, whose view reminds me of such sweet memories, which are for me so many subjects of consolation and hope. I was very touched by the feelings of loyalty and devotion expressed in your letter, and I am happy to convey to you here all my gratitude. Please give my most affectionate compliments to the Duchess of Clermont-Tonnerre, and always believe in my sincere affection.

During his wanderings across the different European countries, Venice is for the Count of Chambord a place to stay every winter, from 1848 to 1866. He then resides in the Cavalli-Franchetti Palace, where he carries out significant renovations. Under the Second Empire, he maintains close contacts with figures of the legitimist movement in France, exchanging discreet correspondence with them, notably with the Duke of Clermont-Tonnerre. As early as 1862, he disseminates his ideas and political program through manifestos intended for the French. Aspiring to a monarchy based on "the much-desired alliance between firm authority and enlightened liberty," he emphasizes the necessity of both administrative and political decentralization while giving particular attention to social issues.