Autograph Signature of Admiral Lord Colville on Free-Front Addressed to John Lee of Chiswick
Brighton, August 27, 1836
A free front bearing the scarce autograph of Admiral John Colville, 9th Lord Colville of Culross, a Royal Navy officer who reached the rank of Admiral of the White. While his naval career was not marked by fame in battle, Colville held a series of significant commands and was appointed to several administrative and court positions. He is perhaps best remembered for his familial connections and long tenure in aristocratic and military society. The letter is addressed to John Lee, likely the antiquary and future President of Trinity College, Cambridge. A neatly preserved example of Colville’s signature, likely removed from a now-lost letter.
One page, address panel only (approx. 4 x 6.25 in), boldly signed "Colville" lower left. Addressed in Colville’s hand to Mr. John Lee, Mall, Chiswick, with red postal stamp dated 27 August [1836] and manuscript "Brighton–August twentyseventh 1836" at upper margin. Black circular "Rate 2" handstamp. Incomplete contemporary writing to verso, old folds, minor smudge near signature, small loss to upper right corner, else near fine.
Provenance: From an autograph album containing mid-19th century military, political, and naval figures.
