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For your consideration is an exceedingly rare and historically significant original antique c.1783 French royal manuscript document letter, handwritten and signed by Alexandre Marie Eleonor of Saint-Mauris, Count of Montbarrey. At the time of writing, Montbarrey held prestigious titles, including Prince of Montbarrey, Prince of the Holy Roman Empire (1774), Grandee of Spain of the first class (1780), and Knight of the Holy Spirit. This remarkable letter is a direct testament to the influence and connections that Montbarrey enjoyed within the highest echelons of European nobility and governance. The document measures 12.5\" x 7.75\" and is created on laid paper that bears a watermark, further confirming its authenticity and age. The letter is in fine condition, retaining its historical integrity, with the original manuscript handwritten in black ink. It is also accompanied by a red royal wax seal, complete with a crown and cipher, providing a further element of royal provenance. This document is a true museum-quality piece, one of a kind, and authentically correct.
Alexandre Marie Eleonor of Saint-Mauris, Count of Montbarrey, was born into a distinguished family in Besanon on April 20, 1732, and his lineage traces back to the nobility of Franche-Comt. He was the only son of Lieutenant-General Claude Francois Elenonor of Saint-Mauris and Mary Therese Eleanor du Maine du Bourg. His family enjoyed a long history of service to the French crown, dating back to 1537, when they were ennobled by Emperor Charles V. Montbarrey\'s family connections played a crucial role in his rapid rise through the French court, where he garnered considerable favor. He served as a military officer and, with the protection of Madame de Maurepas, became an influential figure in the court of King Louis XVI. In 1778, Montbarrey was appointed Secretary of State for War, a position he held until his downfall in 1780.
Montbarrey\'s time in power, however, was marked by scandal and incompetence. His administration was tarnished by accusations of misuse of military funds, particularly during the American Revolutionary War, and by the corrupt practices of his mistress, Miss Renard, who was involved in a trafficking scandal concerning military appointments. His downfall was swift; Montbarrey was forced to resign from his position in 1780 after mounting criticism from figures such as Necker. Despite this, he retained the favor of King Louis XVI, who provided him with a luxurious residence and a considerable pension. In the years leading up to the French Revolution, Montbarreys fortunes waned, and his belongings, including priceless artworks, were seized and sold off to Lord Chattam, the eldest son of British Prime Minister William Pitt.
The political and personal struggles of Alexandre Marie Eleonor of Saint-Mauris are documented in his published Memories, which delve into his relationships, military career, and manipulation of his position to secure his familys wealth and status. During the Revolution, Montbarrey and his wife narrowly escaped the violence of the Bastille storming, fleeing to Switzerland and later to Constance, where he lived in poverty until his death in 1796. His widow returned to France after his passing, living out her final years in Dole. This letter, written in the heart of Montbarreys political career, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of an influential yet controversial figure in the twilight years of the French monarchy. This rare and valuable historical document is a piece of royal and French history that would be a worthy addition to any collection of European nobility or revolutionary memorabilia.
