Lot 282
Herzl, Theodore (1860-1904) Founder of modern, political Zioniam; writer and editor. Rare Autograph Letter Signed ("Th Herzl") as editor of the influencial paper Neue Freie Presse, on business letterhead, Vienna, March 29, 2003. One page, 9 x 5¾ in. Written in German to an unidentified baroness about the publication of one of her articles: "Both writings are interesting and full of talent - but unfortunately not suited to our paper. I hope that you can once again hit the right tone for us. Respectfully Th Herzl." Boldly penned and signed. Light toning, a couple of small, closed edge tears, and an ink smudge in the "l" of "Herzl." A penciled notation on the verso, "Meran-Obermais, Villa Ubensheim," may identify the recipient. Only nine Herzl Autograph Letters Signed have appeared at a major auction in the last 25 years.
Herzl had a long-standing relationship with The New Free Press. It provided financial support, and he remained its literary editor until his death. He had accepted a post as a writer with the prestigious paper in 1892, after receiving a Doctorate of Laws in 1882 from the University of Vienna and failing in his efforts as a playwright. The turning point in his life would be his coverage of the Dreyfus trial in Paris. Captain Alfred Dreyfus, who was accused of spying for Germany, was the only Jewish member of the French Army General Staff. After considering the evidence, or lack thereof, Herzl became convinced that being Jewish was Dreyfus' only crime. From that point on, Herzl worked fervently to convince other Jews that they needed their own independent state. In 1896, he wrote Der Judenstaat, setting forth the idea that Jews could only be safe in a nation in which Jews were the majority, and explaining in detail how the nation would function. The publication of this 65-page manuscript was a "Eureka" moment for many Jews and Herzl, who worked tirelessly toward his goal until his death, became a legend.
At the time of this letter, Herzl was ill and overworked. He would die just over three months later, on July 3. Before his death, he asked that his remains be moved to Jerusalem when the nation was formed in Palestine; he now rests on the peak of Mt. Herzl.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 3,000.
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