Lot 1744
Russia. Peter the Great (1672-1725). During his reign, Peter created a regular army and navy, subjugated the Church to the state, and created new territorial divisions of the country. He was interested in science, was a skillful diplomat, and a talented military leader. In 1721, he proclaimed Russia an Empire and became Emperor of All Russia.
Letter Signed as Czar of Russia, June 21, 1711, from the banks of the River Reut, 4 pages, 7¾ x 6¼ in. In Russian, to General Field Marshal Count Sheremetiev, ordering him to send 300 cavalry to Moldavia to propose that the Moldavians join Russia, and to get provisions, by force if necessary. Some overall soiling, but boldly penned and signed. With translation. Russia was fighting on a dual front, having been at war with Sweden since 1700, in a struggle to control the Baltic Sea territories, and with Turkey since 1710. Peter had directed much of the war with Sweden (which would last until 1721) himself, being responsible for a great victory at Poltava in 1709 over Charles XII, and at the time of this letter, was marching against the Turks into Moldavia. The war with the Turks was negotiated to an end in 1713.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,500.
The Dr. Robert D. Hesselgesser Collection.
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| Realized $8,338 |
