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Letter from Charles II to Sir George Downing, Ambassador at the Hague, 16th January 1672. Artist: King Charles II
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Letter from Charles II to Sir George Downing, Ambassador at the Hague, 16th January 1672. Artist: King Charles II
Letter from Charles II to Sir George Downing, Ambassador at the Hague, 16th January 1672. Letter written from Whitehall shortly before the outbreak of the Dutch war, instructing Downing as to his conduct of negotiations. War was declared by England against the Dutch on 17th March, and by France three days later. Downing suddenly returned home, for fear of mob violence at the Hague, on 6th February and was sent to the Tower for leaving his post contrary to the Kings orders. From the fifth series of Facsimiles of royal, historical, literary and other autographs in the Department of Manuscripts, British Museum: Series I-V. (London, 1899)
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Media ID 14910504
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1st Baronet Ambassador Charles Ii Correspondence Deserter Diplomat Facsimile King Charles Ii King Of Great Britain And Ireland Letter Signature Deserting Downing Print Collector3
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant historical artifact - a letter from King Charles II to Sir George Downing, the Ambassador at the Hague, dated 16th January 1672. The letter was written just before the outbreak of the Dutch war and provides instructions to Downing regarding his negotiations. The image showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of King Charles II himself, as he personally penned this important correspondence in his own handwriting. The vibrant colors used in this facsimile bring life to every stroke of ink on paper. However, history took an unexpected turn for Sir George Downing. Fearing mob violence at the Hague, he abruptly returned home on 6th February and was subsequently sent to the Tower for deserting his post against the King's orders. This incident adds intrigue and drama to an already fascinating narrative. This photograph offers a glimpse into seventeenth-century diplomacy and royal authority. It highlights both the power wielded by monarchs like Charles II and their reliance on trusted diplomats such as Sir George Downing. As we admire this print, we are reminded of how letters can shape destinies and alter world events. It serves as a testament to human communication across time and space – connecting us with past rulers, their decisions, and those who carried out their bidding in service of crown and country.
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