Collection of 14 signed letters, all but 3 autographs, written by Charles Baudin (1792-1854) and dated 1842-1849, when he served as Maritime Prefect at Toulon. He was one of the leading naval figures of the 19th century, whose naval service, mostly as Vice Admiral, began under Napoleon Bonaparte and ended in the early days of the Second Empire. Charles Baudin lost his right arm in battle in 1808 and had to write with his left hand, leading to the distinctive back-sloped handwriting evident in his signature and the 10 autograph letters.
All letters are in good or very good condition. Letters 4, 7 and 14 are very slightly browned and 14 also shows some small stains. Letter 2 has a corner torn off and a small hole (neither affecting the text). A valuable primary source for French naval affairs in the last decade of Louis Philippe I's reign. For Charles Baudin: Howgego, 1800-1850, B16 (see also B17).