WLADYSLAW IV VASA: (1595-1648) King of Poland 1632-48. A renowned Patron of the Arts. Wladyslaw gained fame when he defeated the Ottoman Empire and was elected Tsar of Russia by the Seven Boyars in 1610, although he did not accept the Russian throne. Rare L.S., `Vladislaus Rex´, one page, 4to, Smolensk, 4th January 1634, to Monsignor Visconti, Archbishop of Larissa and Apostolic Nuncio, in Italian. Wladyslaw sends a kind and affectionate letter to Reverend Visconti on the occasion of the New Year festivities, sending his best wishes and stating in part `…che abbiamo del buen animo de V.S verso di noi coll´ augurio di felicita che ci ha fatto … del Santo Natale…´  The letter describes the location where the King is as `Dal Campo sopra Smolensco´ (“From the fields above Smolensk”) With address leaf, bearing an attractive Royal paper seal affixed in fine condition. The letter has been professionally repaired reinforcing the pages. Overall age wear, otherwise about G

 

Nuncio Honorato Visconti (?-1645) Archbishop of Larissa