293 - VAUDOYER (Antoine-Laurent-Thomas) (1756–1846). French architect, member of the Institut, architect of the Palais des Beaux-Arts, and Inspector General of Civil Buildings.

VAUDOYER (Antoine-Laurent-Thomas) (1756–1846). French architect, member of the Institut, architect of the Palais des Beaux-Arts, and Inspector General of Civil Buildings. Autograph letter signed “Vaudoyer” to “Monsieur et cher confrère.” Paris, November 16, 1811. 2 pages, in-4. Address on the reverse. An interesting letter devoted to the problems of construction and maintenance of the fountains at the Palais des Beaux-Arts, and particularly to water seepage threatening the building’s foundations. Vaudoyer draws his correspondent’s attention to the misuse of the fountains and the consequences of overflow: “Everyone fiddles with the overflow valves of the fountains at the Palais des Beaux-Arts, and they are never set as they should be… ” He emphasizes the risks posed by water seeping between the stone and the pavement, which damages the vaults and threatens the service cellars located below. The architect proposes several protective measures and insists on the need for swift action to preserve the building: “You would be doing a service to the public interest—and to me in particular, given my commitment to the preservation of the monument entrusted to my care…” A fine technical letter on Parisian architecture during the First Empire, reflecting Vaudoyer’s concerns regarding the preservation of public buildings and the practical difficulties encountered in their maintenance. Handwritten address on the reverse, with traces of a wax seal. Original creases and some foxing.