ELISABETH OF VALOIS: (1545-1568) Also known as Elisabeth of France. Queen of Spain 1559-68 as third spouse of King Philip II of Spain. She was the eldest daughter of King Henry II of France and Catherine de´Medici. Elisabeth died at the very early age of 23. A very rare Autograph letter signed by the Queen, to her mother. A.L.S., `Elisabeth´, one page, folio, n.p., n.d., to the Queen of France and her mother Catherine de´Medici, in old French. Elisabeth asks for an important favour, stating in part `Madame, j'ai su le bien et faveur qu'il vous a plu faire…de certain arrêt duquel il se soit peiné bien fort, moyennant laquelle révision et fasse lui de justifier son innocence qui est cause que de nouveau je redoive vous supplier faire…il a souffert de dommage en sa personne et biens par la malice de ses ennemis. J'ai prié dieu madame qu'il vous tienne en santé très heureuse et longue vie. Votre très humble et très obéissante fille´ (Translation: “Madame, I have learned the good favour you have been kind to do... of certain judgment which he has suffered himself very much, in return for which revision and make him justify his innocence which is the cause that again I must beg you to do… he suffered damage to his person and properties by the malice of his enemies. I prayed to God madam that he keep you very healthy and long life. Your very humble and very obedient daughter”) With address leaf stating `A la Reyne, Madame et mère´ (Translation: “To the Queen, Madame and mother”) A very rare latter of good association. Overall age wear, with foxing and creases, mostly to edges. About G

 

King Philip II of Spain was very attached to Elisabeth of France, staying close by her side even when she was ill with smallpox. Both were very close to their two daughters, buying them dolls and toys and both rejoiced at the birth of Isabella as if it had been the birth of a son. Elisabeth had another miscarriage on 3 October 1568, and died the same day, along with her new-born infant daughter. After the death of Elisabeth, Catherine de´Medici offered her younger daughter Margaret as a bride for Philip II, but the King declined the offer