142 - LENCLOS (Ninon de), 1620–1705.

LENCLOS (Ninon de), 1620–1705. L.A., undated, 3 pp., in-8, addressed to M. de Bonrepos (traces of a red wax seal, ink stains). A love letter, very much in the spirit of “la belle Ninon”: “[...] I have only words; when you oblige me with actions, you must surely allow me to have them [...]” she writes, hoping for the return of Monsieur de Cas[or La F/La S?] “ [...] in his room at the Feuillants [...] whenever you wish to have both of us, you need only say ‘good evening, sir’; if you were staying on my street and had no business in St. Germain, I believe I could develop with you that degree offriendship that dispenses with all formalities; I exchange them with those we see every day, but it is a gross oversight not to return the courtesy one receives [...]” The recipient is most likely François d’Usson de Bonrepaus (and not “Bonrepos,” as is most commonly spelled today), a diplomat and courtier who frequented the social and literary circles of the late reign of Louis XIV. Anne “Ninon” de Lenclos (1620–1705), a famous courtesan and woman of wit during the Grand Siècle, embodied a freedom of morals and thought that was exceptional for her time. Her Parisian salon attracted writers, noblemen, and statesmen, including La Rochefoucauld, Saint-Évremond, and Molière. Established during her lifetime as a true figure of high society, she cultivated a free and decidedly libertine view of love, friendship, and social conventions. This letter is representative of her character, with its blend of naturalness, gallantry, and a free tone. Comes with its original cultural property export certificate from the Ministry of Culture.