Freelance Historian

The World of Historical Manuscripts and Ephemera

Why Good Research Matters

Steven | October 30, 2009

Here’s an example of why the quality of your research (and researchers) makes a difference.
While browsing a recent auction at a noted auction house, I came across the following:
Timothy Pickering Autograph Letter Signed “T. Pickering” as secretary of state. One page, 9.75″ x 8″, January 10, 1799, n.p. The letter, addressed to Dwight Foster, asks, [...]

Alexander Autograph’s Fall Auction

Steven | October 20, 2008

The Fall 2008 auction at Alexander Autographs is just around the corner!
Alexander Autographs will be holding its Fall auction on November 6-7, 2008. We are very proud to present this auction, one of our largest ever, which will include over 1,800 fine lots of important historical autographs in all fields of collecting.
Including:

Col. Paul [...]

Sotheby’s Expects Up to $55 Million in Qing Dynasty Auction

Steven | September 3, 2008

Reuters reports on the upcoming Sotheby’s auction in Hong Kong of the treasures of a Chinese Emperor:
A singular collection of imperial treasures once owned by China’s powerful Qianlong emperor including jade dragon seals, military scrolls and a sword will be offered by Sotheby’s this autumn in its Hong Kong sale.
Sotheby’s “Legacies [...]