Skip to product information
1 of 8

Scientific correspondence of Dom Pedro II (1870s, 1880s)

Scientific correspondence of Dom Pedro II (1870s, 1880s)

Regular price R$ 0,00 BRL
Regular price Sale price R$ 0,00 BRL
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.

Free shipping

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Digital Warranty ©

This item is no longer available. However, we can potentially put you in touch with its owner — who knows, they might accept your offer? — or, alternatively, suggest other items of similar interest, without any commitment. Contact us via WhatsApp: +55 31 98221-5758 or email: contato@glorias.com.br

A man of progress, the Emperor of Brazil sought all scientific innovations in Paris and strived to build bridges between his country and France.

  • Set of 7 handwritten letters from Dom Pedro II, one to Jules Taschereau (1873) and six others to Marcellin Berthelot.
  • 7 leaves, 8 pages.
  • In French.
  • +/- 13 cm x 21 cm.
  • Petrópolis, Rio, and Cannes: between 1873 and 1888.
  • Excellent state of preservation. 
  • Unique set.

Translated excerpts from French

Petrópolis, March 13, 1873. "To Mr. Taschereau, director of the National Library of Paris. I recommend Dr. Ramis Galuad, director of the National Library in Rio, to you. I hope you will let him admire all the riches of your library, where you were so kind to me. Your affectionate colleague, D. Pedro d'Alcântara."

Rio, April 23, 1874. "Dear professor, The memory of my visit to your laboratory at the Collège de France remains very vivid in my memory, and obliges me to recommend Dr. Freire to you, who has just qualified for the chair of Organic Chemistry at the Rio School of Medicine through a brilliant competition. He has been sent to study in Europe. I am sure that he will honor the reception of scholars and the sentiments with which I am your affectionate, D. Pedro d'Alcântara."

Paris, June 6, 1877. "Sir, I hope you can be in your laboratory at the Collège de France on the 9th for a few moments of conversation that so many commitments in Paris have not allowed me to have elsewhere with you. I plan to visit your laboratory between 1 and 2 o'clock. Your very affectionate colleague, D. Pedro d'Alcântara."

Rio, April 14, 1880. "Sir, You know my love for science, which is, moreover, too platonic in the position I occupy, and my sincere esteem for those who are fortunate enough to be able to contribute to scientific progress; That is why I naturally express how eager I am to read your essay on chemical mechanics. Scholars even oblige me to reserve judgment on theories, but the principle of maximum work will make you further enrich the field of synthesis. I ask you to always remember the interest I have in your work and to always believe in your affectionate, D. Pedro d'Alcântara."

Rio, September 14, 1882. "Sir, I recommend to you again a Brazilian of scientific merit, Dr. Ferreira dos Santos, associate professor at the Rio School of Medicine. He will perfect his chemical studies and I expect a great deal of his help for the services he will render to his science in my country. For a long time I have only seen your name in reports, however, I am sure that you believe in the interest that what you wished to communicate to me in your letters would cause me, especially if it can contribute to the progress of the study of chemistry in my country. Fortunately, I notice a little more scientific movement. I ask you to always count on the sincere esteem of your very affectionate, D. Pedro d'Alcântara."

Petrópolis, March 20, 1887. "Sir, As a Brazilian, I thank you for your collaboration in the journal which is announced as dedicated to all the interests of my country and I am happy to provide information relating to the physical sciences, with which you know I occupy myself as much as my position allows. By asking you to recall me to the good memories of our colleagues, I take this opportunity to express all the esteem I have for you, your affectionate colleague, D. Pedro d'Alcântara."

Cannes, January 18, 1888. "Sir, Your letter gave me great pleasure, as you should indeed be very sure, for you know how much I esteem you. I am sure that those you recommend will find the best reception from my son-in-law and my daughter. Always inform me about your work, for you perfectly know the interest your affectionate colleague has in them. D. Pedro d'Alcântara."

A man of virtue, science, culture, and progress, Dom Pedro II reigned for fifty-eight years over Brazil. Inheriting an Empire on the brink of ruin upon his father's succession in 1831, he profoundly transformed his country to elevate it to a free, civic, and emerging power on the international stage.

Generally considered, to this day, as the greatest man in Brazilian History, his conduct elicited the respect and admiration of many European scientists and writers, such as Darwin, Hugo, Pasteur, Bell, and Nietzsche.

"I was born to dedicate myself to culture and sciences," he wrote in his personal diary in 1862. Speaking more than ten languages, he was a member of the Royal Society, the Russian and Belgian Academies of Sciences, the American Geographical Society, and was elected to the French Academy of Sciences in 1975. Desiring to put his knowledge at the service of his country, he actively developed national education, scientific, and artistic research.

Important correspondences from Dom Pedro II — in my opinion, one of the most fascinating personalities in Brazilian History — are increasingly rare; this may be the last. This collection is particularly interesting because it shows — in the last years of his reign — how much Dom Pedro II loved the sciences, how he strived to value and advance Brazil with the help of France, the two countries that profoundly marked his life.


View full details

Frequently asked questions about the GLÒRIAS COLLECTION

Is there a physical store where I can see the items in person?

No. Glórias operates exclusively online because we serve collectors throughout Brazil and also abroad. If you wish to examine an item before purchase, we will be happy to send high-resolution photographs or additional information. Our team is located in Belo Horizonte (MG).

Do the items sold come with a certificate of authenticity?

Yes. All items available at Glórias have been carefully selected, studied, and certified before being offered for sale. Each purchase comes with a digital certificate of authenticity and guarantee, which we send via email. It is signed and stamped by Mathias Meyer, a French autograph expert since 2010 and a member of the ILAB (International League of Antiquarian Booksellers).

Who selects and certifies the items sold?

All items are selected and certified by Mathias Meyer, a French specialist in autographs, manuscripts, and historical documents since 2010. Throughout his career, he has studied thousands of pieces related to Brazilian history, sports, science, literature, and arts, and is now a member of ILAB (International League of Antiquarian Booksellers) and founder of Glórias.

How do I make a purchase?

You can purchase directly from the Glórias website, 24 hours a day, quickly and securely. If you prefer personalized service or have questions before purchasing, you can also contact us by email at contato@glorias.com.br or by WhatsApp at +55 (31) 98221-5758.

What are the payment methods?

We accept payment via Pix or bank transfer, both with a 3% discount for upfront payment, as well as credit card in up to 3 interest-free installments, offering convenience and security for customers across Brazil.

Can I pay for my purchase in installments?

Yes. You can pay in full via Pix or bank transfer with a 3% discount, or pay in up to 3 interest-free installments by credit card, with immediate shipping after payment confirmation. It is also possible to pay in up to 10 installments via Pix; in this case, shipping will be carried out after the full payment of the purchase.

Can I ask for a discount?

We offer a 3% discount for payments made in full (via Pix or bank transfer) or the option to pay in up to 3 interest-free installments by credit card. Furthermore, the prices of our pieces are carefully determined based on international market supply and demand, the specific characteristics of each item, and sales results of similar pieces. For this reason, we typically do not grant additional discounts. However, if you wish to purchase multiple pieces or make an exceptionally high-value purchase, we would be pleased to consider a special commercial arrangement.

How is delivery made? What will I receive?

Delivery time varies from approximately 1 to 10 business days, depending on the recipient's location. In Brazil, we primarily use SEDEX, and for international shipments, FedEx. The document is placed in an elegant laid paper folder and sent in completely discreet packaging. The digital certificate of authenticity and guarantee is sent via email in PDF format for security reasons. Shipping is free throughout Brazil. For international shipments, the shipping cost is a fixed R$ 500.00. For some exceptionally valuable or specially sized pieces, delivery may be carried out personally by Mathias Meyer, in Brazil or abroad.

Can I return my purchase?

Yes. For online purchases, the Consumer Protection Code guarantees the right of withdrawal within 7 days of receiving the item. If you are not satisfied, simply contact us and we will respond promptly to find the best solution, which may include a full refund after the return and verification of the item.

What warranties come with the items?

All items sold by Glórias have a permanent guarantee against eventual certification errors, provided that such error is subsequently demonstrated and confirmed by Mathias Meyer. In this event, the buyer will be fully reimbursed. To date, this situation has never occurred. The guarantee does not cover natural alterations or damage caused by improper storage, exposure to light, humidity, insects, or any other external factor that may compromise the preservation of the paper or ink.

Can I resell this piece in the future?

Yes. Should you wish to sell your piece in the future, please contact us. We will be happy to guide you and help you find a new collector, either through a direct sale or through a specialized auction organized by Glórias.

How can I add value to my collection?

If your goal is to go beyond an isolated purchase, the ideal is to build a coherent collection around a theme, a personality, or a historical period, such as aviation pioneers, women who made history, love letters, old photographs of Rio de Janeiro, Oscar Niemeyer, Pelé, or Ayrton Senna. Mathias Meyer can guide you in forming a consistent collection, according to your interests, objectives, and budget.

How should I store my document or autograph?

To preserve your document in the best condition, we recommend against laminating it or keeping it permanently framed, as paper needs to breathe and prolonged exposure to light can accelerate its deterioration. Ideally, store it in a dry, dark, and clean place, protected from humidity, extreme temperatures, dust, and insects, ensuring its preservation for many decades.

Why aren't these pieces in museums?

Throughout history, much of the world's documentary heritage has been preserved thanks to private collectors and dealers. These enthusiasts of historical documents play a fundamental role in the discovery, study, and preservation of pieces that can later be loaned, donated, or sold to museums and other institutions. In Brazil, where many museums have limited financial resources and staff, this collaboration is even more important. Glórias maintains relationships with public institutions, museums, and researchers, both in Brazil and abroad, sharing discoveries, knowledge, and, in some cases, documents for exhibitions.

Can I offer you a part to buy?

With pleasure. The first step is to conduct a preliminary assessment, which will determine the level of authenticity, market value, and the best strategy for your piece. Depending on the outcome, there are several possibilities, such as certification, direct sale, consignment, or a specialized auction.

Where do the parts sold by Glórias come from?

Behind every rare document lies a unique trajectory, which makes collecting a fascinating way to preserve and transmit history. Most of the pieces offered by Glórias were inherited by families who contacted us, while others were acquired at auctions, where they were misidentified or undervalued, or came from collectors, antique dealers, or autograph document merchants.