Lot 20129 – 1869 (12.11) Cover from Ismalia via Alexandria to Marseille,

1869 (12.11) Cover from Ismalia via Alexandria to Marseille, franked Egypt First Issue 1866 1pi. tied POSTE VICE-REALI EGIZIANE / ISMAILIA / 12 NOV. 66 circular datestamp, with France 40c. tied lozenge “5080” and ALEXANDRIE / ÉGYPTE / 13 NOV. 69 circular datestamp alongside, backstamped Alexandria 13.11.69 and Marseille, extremely fine, attractive and a scarce combination franking, showpiece

Note: Empress Eugenie on board the “Aigle” travelled from Port Said on Nov. 16, via Ismailia, Nov. 17, to Suez, Nov. 22 (inauguration). Over 4000 French nationals were living at that time on the shore of lake Timsah, calling Ismailia affectionately “Petite Venise”