LESUEUR JEAN-FRANCOIS: (1760-1837) French Composer. Composer of the Royal Chapel and Conductor of the orchestra of the Opera. Among his composition pupils at the Paris Conservatoire were Berlioz, Gounod and Ambroise Thomas. A rare and very fine A.L.S., `LeSueur, M[em]ber of the Legion d´Honneur, Composer and musical Director of His Majesty the Emperor and King´, one page, 4to, [Paris], 8<sup>th</sup> July 1809, to the Minister of the Interior, in French. Lesueur responds to the Minister´s information request stating in part `I dare assure His Excellency the Minister of the Interior, that I only know Mr. Vieilh-Varenne by reports which are extremely favourable to him; and all I have heard concerning this estimable artist is as creditable as possible, as much for his talent, as for the good conduct which he has always maintained. I believe him worthy to fill with distinction the place which he solicits from your Excellency..´, further apologizing for interrupting his correspondent `..interrupting you Monseigneur in the important affairs which occupy you, from the certainty I feel of the kindness and interest which your Excellency deigns to show towards unfortunate talents.´, and before concluding saying `…is his lively and sincere attachment to the sacred persons of our august Sovereigns.´ The present letter was part of the reputed collection of Wilhelm Kunzel (1819-1896). Neatly affixed to a slightly larger paper-card. Accompanied by a full translation of the letter into English. Small overall minor foxing and age wear to the upper part of the letter, otherwise G

 

The present letter is addressed to the Minister of Interior. From June to October 1809 the Minister was Joseph Fouché (1759-1820) Duke of Otranto. Best-known as Minister of Police under the Directory, the Consulate and the Empire. Although most probably the letter was addressed to his predecessor Emmanuel Crétet (1747-1809) Count of Champmol and first Governor of the Bank of France. Minister of the Interior from 1807 until June 09. Crétet spent very important amounts as Minister, encouraging learning and arts.

 

Vieilh-Varenne was a French Painter and Engraver. Pupil of Joseph-Marie Vien, first painter of the King.