A Relic of Empire and Despair: Napoleon's Pistols Auctioned for Millions
In a testament to the enduring fascination with one of history's most iconic figures, two pistols once intended by Napoleon Bonaparte to end his life sold for a staggering €1.69 million ($1.8 million) at an auction in Fontainebleau, just south of Paris. The final sale price surpassed the estimated range of €1.2-1.5 million, highlighting the insatiable appetite among collectors for mementos of the French emperor.
The identity of the buyer remains shrouded in secrecy, adding an air of intrigue to the transaction. Napoleon memorabilia has consistently commanded high prices, with one of his renowned bicorne black cocked hats fetching €1.9 million in November, further underscoring the allure of these historical artifacts.
Classified as National Treasures: A French Legacy
Prior to the auction, the French Ministry of Culture's National Treasures Commission bestowed upon the pistols the prestigious designation of national treasures, effectively prohibiting their export. This decision, published in the government's official journal, initiated a 30-month window during which the French government may make an offer to acquire the pistols from the new owner, who retains the right to decline. National treasures are granted the privilege of temporary departures from France, but they must be eventually returned.
Historical Significance Etched in Gold and Silver
The pistols, adorned with intricate gold and silver embellishments, bear an engraved likeness of Napoleon in his imperial regalia, imbuing them with immense historical significance. Adorned with a symphony of gold and silver filigree, the pistols feature an engraved depiction of Napoleon in his full imperial splendor. They were rumored to have nearly served as the instruments of the French ruler's demise in 1814 when he was forced to relinquish power after foreign forces vanquished his army and occupied Paris.
In the depths of despair following the defeat of the French campaign, Napoleon contemplated ending his life with these very weapons, but his devoted grand squire, Armand de Caulaincourt, surreptitiously removed the gunpowder, as revealed by Jean-Pierre Osenat, an expert from the auction house, in an interview with AFP ahead of the sale.
Undeterred, Napoleon consumed poison but survived after vomiting and subsequently bestowed the pistols upon his loyal squire as a token of gratitude, Osenat further elaborated.
Napoleon's Desperate Attempt
In the tumultuous year of 1814, as foreign forces tightened their grip on Paris, Napoleon grappled with thoughts of ending his life. Although his initial attempt with the pistols proved futile, he later resorted to poison, but fate had other plans as he survived after vomiting. This dramatic episode has indelibly etched itself into the pistols' historical narrative, adding to their allure and value.
Enduring Interest in Napoleon Memorabilia
Memorabilia associated with Napoleon continues to captivate collectors, as evidenced by the €1.9 million sale of one of his iconic bicorne black cocked hats adorned with blue, white, and red trimmings in November. These artifacts retain their compelling appeal due to their profound historical and cultural resonance.
Exile and Return: Napoleon's Tumultuous Path
Following his abdication, Napoleon was banished to the island of Elba, situated off the coast of Italy. In a dramatic turn of events, he staged a daring return to France, but his reign was short-lived, culminating in his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Napoleon spent his final years in exile on the remote island of St. Helena, where he breathed his last six years later.
National Treasure Status: A Legacy Preserved
Regarding the pistols' designation as a national treasure, a representative from the Osenat auction house remarked, Being classified as a national treasure gives the object an incredible value. This statement underscores the profound historical and cultural significance of items linked to Napoleon Bonaparte.
