Sep 24, 2020 - Sale 2546

Sale 2546 - Lot 230

Price Realized: $ 500
?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price
Estimate: $ 400 - $ 600
(WAR OF 1812.) Prince Regent João VI of Portugal and Brazil. Portuguese proclamation of neutrality. Printed broadside, 11 x 7 1/4 inches. Bound in modern calf with several blank leaves, with gilt title "Guerra Anglo-Americana"; inked page number in upper margin, minor foxing, slight musty scent; modern collector's bookplate on front pastedown. [Rio de Janeiro], 18 August 1812

Additional Details

In 1807, Portugal was invaded by France, and the Portuguese royal family and government relocated to Brazil, along with "Na Impressão Régia"--the first enduring printing press in Brazil. This decree was issued as an early reaction to news of war between the United States and Great Britain. The exiled crown of Portugal, in no position to take sides, expressed its wish to preserve 'the most perfect neutrality as long as the war lasts.' None traced in OCLC or at auction.