Lot 625

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Description:

MAO ZEDONG
(1893-1976) Chinese revolutionary and political theorist who wrested control of China during World War II from the Nationalists. Established and led the Communist People's Republic of China until his death. Espoused a blend of Marxist philosophy, brutal guerrilla tactics, and social administration now known as Maoism. We offer one of the rarest signatures of the 20th century, a document signed mere months before Mao would take the title of PRC Chairman, 1p. 4to., Beijing, June 14, 1954, a letter of invitation to Romanian President Petru Groza. The letter, stamped in blue hanshi, reads: "...I welcome you with great pleasure, Comrade President, to take a state visit to China. The people of the People's Republic of China, and I myself, feel genuinely honored for your state visit. I deeply believe your friendly state visit will strengthen as well as develop the deep friendship between the People's Republic of Romania and the People's Republic of China..." Boldly signed, "Mao Zedong" in large, flourishing calligraphy along the left margin of this official document with State seal. Included is the official typed Romanian translation that accompanied the letter, and the original transmittal cover printed in Chinese hanshi with Western docketing in blue ink at upper left. Also included is a reply by PETRU GROZA, T.L.S., 1p. 4to., Bucharest, Aug. 17, 1954, as President on official State letterhead, Groza's retained copy, in part: "...I received your letter with joy. You do me special honour to invite me to visit your beautiful country, China. This friendly visit will give me an opportunity to learn the achievements of the great Chinese nation...". Although Romania had no geopolitical choice but to publicly remain allied to the Soviet Union, under Groza the country fostered a much closer private relationship with Mao and China. Groza and Mao often wrote, and China held its flag at half-mast with a speech from Mao when Groza died in 1958. The Mao-signed letter bears folds, very slight foxing at right and bottom margins, an expert paperclip mark restoration at top right and is otherwise very good with a very fine signature. The transmittal cover is very good, with paperclip evidence at top right and a minor vertical separation at bottom. The Groza reply has minor folds, with a moderate ink run at the first name and ink smudges below the signature. In all, one of the rarest and most comprehensive Mao lots ever offered at auction.

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January 21, 2010 10:00 AM EST
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 + $1,000