MAXIMILIAN II (1811-1864, from 1848 King of Bavaria)

Fine letter in Italian with translation, signed, to Teodolfo Mertel, (1806-1899, Cardinal from 1858), thanking him for his good wishes "on the return of the Holy Feast of the Nativity", wishing him in return "the most complete prosperity", and asking him to be persuaded of his "perfect esteem", 1 side folio and conjugate blank, Munich, 31st January

While still crown prince, Maximilian rebuilt Schloss Hohenschwangau in the mountains and made it a centre for artists and men of learning. Coming to the throne in the eventful year of 1848, he sought a middle way for Germany between the rivalry of Austria and Prussia, and granted Bavaria a constitution in 1859. He continued to invite scientists such as Liebig to Munich, regardless of their religious views, in spite of criticism from the ultramontane party. This letter was signed a few weeks before he died on 10th March.
Cardinal Mertel, born at Allumiere, Civitavecchia, was vice-chancellor (the highest legal post) of the Roman Church, from 1884.

Item Date:  1864

Stock No:  14433      £325

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