NAPOLÉON II (1811-1832), duc de Reichstadt, l’Aiglon. Rare... Lot 65

NAPOLÉON II (1811-1832), duc de Reichstadt, l’Aiglon. Rare study book of French grammar and classical history by the Duke of Reichstadt, born King of Rome, then aged 14, dated November 1825 and authenticated by his governor Johann-Baptist von Foresti (1776-1849) with a note on the last page itself dated 1845. The various grammatical principles are illustrated by dictated and corrected sentences, sometimes with a moral such as "A man who has received all the gifts of fortune, and who does not know how to enjoy them, is more to be pitied than a poor man who, being content with his small field, cultivates it with care, and who, having no more hope in this world, does not flatter his spirit with vague wishes", which most probably corresponds to the education of the young prince who was intended to be critical of his illustrious father. 24 pages, in-4°. History Johann-Baptist von Foresti, a captain and military engineer, was appointed L'Aiglon's tutor on September 6, 1815 by Kaiser Franz I, under the orders of Count Moritz von Dietrichstein; his complex task was to provide the Bonaparte heir with a complete education, including French, Italian, history and even military strategy, but in such a way that he would not harbor ambitions like his father. Foresti served the prince until his death, and was knighted by Kaiser Ferdinand in 1841.