An attractive ALS (Autograph Letter Signed) by Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (1819–1861), husband and Prince Consort of Queen Victoria, written at Buckingham Palace on 3 June 1846. Written in English entirely in Prince Albert's hand, the letter is on fine personal stationery headed by an attractive gilt crowned royal monogram and is written on both sides. Albert addresses the recipient: “My dear Lord Robert” The recipient was Lord Robert Grosvenor (1801–1893), British politician and royal courtier, who had served as Groom of the Stole to Prince Albert from 1840 to 1841 and was appointed Treasurer of the Household in August 1846. He was later created 1st Baron Ebury. Albert writes that upon arriving he found Lord Robert's letter announcing “the great addition to your family, ” and conveys the congratulations of both himself and Queen Victoria: “The Queen & myself wish you sincerely joy…” He continues with affectionate concern for Lady Robert, expressing the hope that she had not suffered greatly and would recover speedily. The letter concludes warmly: “Believe me always, my dear Lord Robert, yours truly, Albert” followed by: “Buckingham Palace June 3 – 1846” The association between Albert and the recipient was more than a routine social acquaintance: Lord Robert Grosvenor had personally served in Prince Albert's household and subsequently held important positions at court and in British political life. An appealing royal autograph manuscript combining Prince Albert's original handwriting and signature, a gilt royal monogram, Buckingham Palace provenance, an identified recipient formerly attached to Albert's own household, and personal content explicitly conveying the congratulations of both Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
Auction 01: Auction 01 – Historical Letters, Documents & Autographs — Melis Antiques & Art