QUEEN MARIA TERESA (FRANCE) - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 04/19/1653 - HFSID 53065

QUEEN MARIA TERESA (MARIE THÉRESE) OF FRANCE
The Spanish princess sends her regards to various acquaintances
Autograph letter signed: "Maria Teresa" in brown ink. 1 page, 11¾x8¼ flat, 6x8¼ folded. Written at Palacio Real de Aranjuez, Madrid, Spain. April 19, 1653. Addressed to the Condesa de Salvatierra. Roughly translated: Record of pleasure to hear of sister's improved health, with reference to personal good health, the fine weather, and activities. Regards to specified individual. Maria Teresa (1638-1683) was the daughter of King Philip IV of Spain and his wife, Elisabeth of France. Because Spain had no "Salic Law" preventing the accession of a female monarch, Maria Teresa was heir presumptive to the Spanish throne from 1646 to 1657, an interval during which Philip had no living sons. In 1660, she was married to her first cousin, King Louis XIV of France, as part of the settlement of a war between France and Spain. She thus became Queen Marie Thérese, the French version of her name. Although Louis would have several mistresses during the marriage, he treated his queen respectfully. Though she took little interest in politics, she was obliged to act as regent three times while Louis was away on military campaigns. One of her grandsons became King of Spain, and the last four Bourbon monarchs of France were her descendants. Normal mailing folds. Toned. Edges and corners worn and soiled. Light surface creases. Small tears along edges. Otherwise, fine condition.