French sculptor best known for his colossal Statue of Liberty ("Liberty Enlightening the World") presented to the United States by the French people in 1885. Manuscript letter, entirely in Bartholdi's own hand, dated March 9, 1883, to a correspondent only identified as "Dear Friend." Bartholdi expresses his gladness at hearing that his friend will be visiting Paris soon, and mentions a "Mr. Holland," whom Bartholdi has sent "a card of introduction to the workshop with the best recommendation." This was an important year for Bartholdi, as the financing of his famous famous Statue of Liberty had finally been completed the previous year, and construction would be completed the year following. A rare letter, in English, from a significant sculptor most likely writing to one of his American patrons who was traveling to see the work-in-progress of his monumental statue.