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250

Joseph Guillotin

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Autographs Start Price:NA Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,500.00 USD
Joseph Guillotin

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Auction Date:2011 Oct 12 @ 18:00 (UTC-05:00 : EST/CDT)
Location:5 Rt 101A Suite 5, Amherst, New Hampshire, 03031, United States
ALS - Autograph Letter Signed
ANS - Autograph Note Signed
AQS - Autograph Quotation Signed
AMQS - Autograph Musical Quotation Signed
DS - Document Signed
FDC - First Day Cover
Inscribed - “Personalized”
ISP - Inscribed Signed Photograph
LS - Letter Signed
SP - Signed Photograph
TLS - Typed Letter Signed
French physician and politician (1738–1814) whose name became synonymous with the ‘humane’ instrument of execution whose use he proposed to the government during the French Revolution. LS in French, signed “Guillotin,” one page both sides, 6.25 x 7.5, Office of the National Estate, Department of Paris letterhead, no date other than "l'an troisieme de la Republique Francoise," the third year of the French Republic, ca 1794. Letter in which the committee seems to be warning a Citizen Thuret that although the Law of the Maximum, a law originally designed to set prices on essential items such as foodstuffs, had been abolished (Dec. 1794), he does not have the right to auction his items to the highest buyer. Signed on the reverse by Guillotin, and also signed by Duchatel. Matted and framed so both sides can be read to an overall size of 10.5 x 12. Central horizontal and vertical fold, mild foxing,and light show-through from writing on reverse, otherwise fine condition.

Guillotin, in his capacity here as Deputy of Paris to States-General, informs a resident that he cannot auction his product to the highest bidder, despite the abolishment of the unsuccessful Law of the Maximum. Years of revolution, international conflicts, and poor climate conditions had led to a weak economic environment and food shortages throughout France, resulting in the government establishing the legislation. The French government theorized that the law would allow residents to purchase food at a reasonable rate. With many merchants forced to sell their goods at prices lower than it cost to produce them, however, many withheld products from customers or instead sold them on the black market. Those who violated the law were, ironically, guillotined. This letter was penned toward the end of the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror, presumably not long after Guillotin’s release from prison. The physician was imprisoned by Robespierre but freed following the French leader’s fall from power...and subsequent guillotining.
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