Rago Auctions

Li Hongzhang (romanized Li Hung-Chang) was a Chinese politician, general and diplomat of the late Qing dynasty. He quelled several major rebellions and served in important positions in the Qing imperial court, including the Viceroy of Zhili, Huguang, and Liangguang. He met Josephine Claudius, a young schoolgirl, by chance during a visit to Brooklyn, where he saw her riding her bicycle past his carriage. Intrigued by her skill, he sought to know more about her and they corresponded for a short time. The story captured America's interest and was reported on from coast to coast.
Lot features an embroidered silk scent bag, measuring 14 h x 4.25 w inches, gifted to Josephine Amelia Claudius from Li Hung-Chang. Sold with two original autographed letters and framed facsimile reproductions of same authographed letters and their envelopes, 1896-97, to Miss Josephine Amelia Claudius from Li Hung-Chang.
provenance: Josephine Amelia Claudius | Collection of the Dowager Empress of China | Private Collection