Description:

JEAN-FRANCOIS DE GALAUP, COMTE DE LA PEROUSE
(1741 – 1788?) French naval officer and explorer. Having enlisted at the age of 15, he had a successful naval career and in 1785 was appointed to lead a scientific expedition around the world. His ships stopped in Chile, Hawaii, Alaska, California, Macau, Japan, Russia, and Australia, before wrecking on the reefs of Vanikoro. Excessively rare A.L.S., 2pp. 8vo., [n.p.], Feb. 1, 1764[?], most likely to his wife. The great explorer discusses an illness, apparently that of a friend, and discusses the necessity of making a required civil payment in restitution of a a debt or other obligation. He adds: '...Commence this important task...I see to my mother so that she donated to you...do not send me turkeys with truffles...I love you with all my strength...' Very fine condition, ex: Maison Charavay, Paris. Beautifully framed with the inclusion of two substantial pieces of the anchor from La Perouze's vessel recovered at Vanikoro, the pieces given to our consignor by the Musee Laperouse in Albi, France along with a color portrait of La Perouse and brass biographical plaque, all matted in green moire and set into an ornate gilt wood frame.

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September 10, 2025 10:00 AM EDT
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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