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Autographs/C: Catherine the Great Document Signed

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Autographs/C: Catherine the Great Document Signed
CATHERINE II ("THE GREAT"), Czarina of Russia 1762-96. Manuscript Document Signed "Yekaterina" in Russian, May 10, 1763, no place, 12.25" x 7.75", Extremely Fine. Headed "Imperial Decree to Our personal patrimonial chancery," the document commands that a payment for the year of 1500 rubles be made to an officer. It reads: "We most graciously command that for Colonel Timofey Yevreinov be produced from the revenues of [the] patrimonial department of the said chancery one thousand five hundred rubles for the year, calculating the said production from the first of this May. Catherine." Accompanied by a translation. The signature is very large and boldly signed in brown ink. Catherine the Great was born Sophie Friederike Auguste von Anhalt-Zerbst. She married Grand Duke Peter (later Peter III); they were soon estranged, both being the subject of scandals. Soon after his accession (1762), she deposed him with the help of her paramour, Grigory Orlov, and had herself proclaimed empress (1762). During her reign, serfdom and misery among the peasants increased, but the frontiers of the empire were extended by large conquests. She corresponded with many of the philosophers of the time, Voltaire being a favorite. Although of German origin, she identified completely with the Russian people. She ruled for 34 years.