Description:

Leopoldo de' Medici
Florence, Italy, November 8, 1665
Leopoldo de' Medici 1665 ALS Referencing Medals
ALS

A lengthy autographed letter from Italian cardinal Leopoldo de' Medici signed "Leopoldo" at conclusion. 2pp of a bifolium, measuring 7.75" x 10.75", Florence, Italy, November 8, 1665. Within, de' Medici exchanges pleasantries and mentions that he is in the process of acquiring medals "of any metal and size". The first page features the watermark of an encircled Christian cross with flourishes on either side. Exhibits small pin hole through both pages at middle. Light age toning present throughout, with expected letter folds. Minor wear at edges. Isolated docketing in pencil present at upper left of first page. Otherwise, very good. Together with a typed transcription of the letter's contents.

Translated in full:

"Mr. Alendr.
I am glad of your happy voyage and I learn what has happened in Bologna, Modena, and Parma and I am glad that you are in health That I wish you perfect.
Without express permission of Mr. Patriarca I am bound not to give to any one his Tragedies, and therefor for the moment I cannot comply with the desire of Mr. Mariana and would like as I love and esteem him.
I think I forgot to tell you the salute in Paris, but with affectionate ways, for my part, the Abee Signieri, Dean of St. Germain, a very learned person and of kind manners, and see about the medals of any metal and size, and for I begin to have a competent studio except those of first class. And with all my soul I salute the Marquis and you and I wish you every happiness."

Leopoldo de' Medici (1617-1675) was an Italian cardinal, scholar, and patron of the arts. A member of the powerful de' Medici family, he was the younger brother of Ferdinando II, Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1621 to 1670. Leopoldo was born at the Palazzo Pitti in Florence, the capital of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany then ruled by his father, Cosimo II. Throughout his life, Leopoldo was an avid collector of rare books, art, and coins. Indeed, his references to medals toward the end of this letter likely relates to his interest in numismatics. On December 12, 1667, he was named the cardinal of Santi Cosma e Damiano by Pope Clement IX.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 7.75" x 10.75"
  • Medium: ALS

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