Corinphila Auction 284-290 Day 3

Messageries Impériales 1860 (Oct 25): Entire letter at double rate from Rio de Janeiro to Rothschild in London endorsed "p. French Str. "Bearn" to Bordeaux", struck with fine "BÉARN / *" circular datestamp (Oct 25) in black (Salles fig. 1001 = RR) - the Maiden Voyage of the Steamer on the Ligne du Bresil. Struck in Paris with oval framed "FR. / 2F 20c." accountancy marking and charged '1/4d.' due upon delivery. Illustrated in Edition D'Or 59 on page 67. Small part of flap detached but intact, a rare cover.rnProvenance: Collection Bernard Berkinshaw-Smith, Corinphila sale 145, April 2006, lot 3080.