King of France from 1498 to 1515, popularly called 'the Father of the People' (1462 - 1515). Scarce LS in French, signed "Louis," one page, 8.75 x 6.75, September 4, [1494]. Untranslated letter as Duc d'Orleans to the Duc de Bar, sent from Genoa, signed at the conclusion by Louis and countersigned by Jean Coterau, treasurer to Louis XI, Charles VIII, and Louis XII. Intersecting folds and scattered stains, otherwise fine condition. One day previously, the army of King Charles VIII of France had crossed Mont Ginevre and thus started the French army's first Italian campaign for the Kingdom of Naples, marking the beginning of the Italian wars that would rage for decades more. Charles had detached Louis with an army of 10,000 men who were to support the efforts of the fleet. The French fleet defeated the Neapolitans, and on September 8, four days after writing the present letter, Louis achieved a decisive victory over the Neapolitan troops, which had landed at Rapallo east of Genoa. Wars in Italy would continue until 1559, shaping the culture and geography of the region for centuries to come. A highly desirable piece from the outset of this period in European history.Format: LS