Lot 50966 – 1884 (Feb 8) Envelope with 1882-85 2c rose vertical pair and 12c purple-brown

The unique usage of a vertical pair of 2¢ rose and the only known use of the 12¢ on cover.16c Franking: 1884 (Feb 8) Envelope from the Count de Kergaradec at French Consulate in Bangkok to his wife in Angers, France with 1882-85 2c rose vertical pair and 12c purple-brown, one rounded corner but unique on cover, tied by two strikes of the « BANGKOK/FE.9.84 » cds, with red Modane à Paris transit alongside, and red « SINGAPORE/FE.13.84/PAID » cds backstamp, plus attractive blue « LE CONSUL ET COMMISSAIRE DE FRANCE/BANGKOK » cachet, franking excised on a large piece (clear of the Bangkok cds) and rejoined in its original position, some minor creasing otherwise very fine and an extremely rare exhibition showpiece. (Numbered « 32 » in crayon, being the code for each letter sent between the Count and the Countess) The unique combination of values paying the 16c double rate. A magnificent showpiece of the highest calibre for the greatest of connoisseurs.Note: The envelope is accompanied by an extensive four page letter of social and political interest. Captain Tulloch commanding the British steamer McAlister (642 tons), left for Singapore on 8 February 1884 and arrived on the 13^th. Captain Rapatel commanding the French mail Steamer Oxus (3791 tons) left Singapore on 19 Feb 1884 for Marseille.