1885 Royal Egyptian Minister Letter To Khedive Abbas Helmy II Egypt Land Dispute

Description

This exceedingly rare and historically significant antique manuscript, dated circa 1885, is a 4-page handwritten royal document addressed to Abbas Helmy II, the Governor of Egypt. Written by the Khedive-appointed property inspector, the document concerns the long-standing land dispute involving the Armenian sect and the Khedive\’s administration. It includes detailed instructions to the mayor of the village where the disputed Armenian land is located, requesting an inspection to measure the land.

The manuscript features two ministerial negative cartouche signature seals in ink, further authenticating its official nature. Measuring approximately 10.5 inches by 15.25 inches, the document retains its original marks, folds, and minor tears, reflective of its age, and is preserved in museum-quality condition. This unique artifact captures a pivotal moment in Egyptian history, as the land dispute was eventually resolved under the rule of Abbas Helmy II and his successor, Sultan Hussein Kamel. The resolution saw the Armenians receiving double the amount of land they initially requested, highlighting the complexity of the negotiations and the influence of the Khedives administration.

Abbas Helmy II (14 July 1874 19 December 1944) was the last Khedive of Egypt and Sudan, ruling from 1892 until 1914. His reign marked the final chapter of Egypts four-century status as a province of the Ottoman Empire. A nationalist figure, he sought to assert Egypts autonomy but was removed from power by the British in 1914 after the Ottoman Empire aligned with the Central Powers during World War I. His deposition led to the appointment of his more pro-British uncle, Hussein Kamel, as Sultan, signaling the de jure end of Ottoman rule over Egypt.

This one-of-a-kind document offers invaluable insight into the governance of Abbas Helmy II, the complexities of Egyptian land administration, and the historical relationship between the Khedives administration and the Armenian community. Authentic and correct, it is an exceptional artifact for collectors, historians, and institutions focused on the legacy of royal Egypt.