CHARLES IV

KING CHARLES IV OF SPAIN

Discover the complex and turbulent reign of King Charles IV of Spain through a rare, museum-quality collection of signed, autographed documents, royal decrees, personal letters, and diplomatic correspondences that provide insight into the life of a monarch who faced unprecedented challenges. Charles IV, who reigned from 1788 to 1808, is remembered for his attempts to navigate Spain through the upheavals of the French Revolution, economic struggles, and increasing political intrigue. This carefully curated archive offers historians, collectors, and enthusiasts a unique look into Charles IV’s reign, highlighting his efforts to preserve Spain’s stability while contending with powerful influences both inside and outside his court. Each document, many bearing his signature and personal notes, reveals a monarch striving to protect his kingdom amidst mounting pressures.

Charles IV’s reign was marked by his reliance on his influential prime minister, Manuel Godoy, whose policies and close relationship with the king’s family sparked controversy and opposition. Under Charles IV’s rule, Spain experienced both cooperation and conflict with Napoleonic France, ultimately leading to political instability and the weakening of Spanish power. The eventual abdication of Charles IV in favor of his son, Ferdinand VII, was forced by Napoleon’s intervention, marking a dramatic end to his rule and the beginning of the Peninsular War. This collection captures the intricate dynamics of Charles IV’s reign, offering a vivid glimpse into the life of a king whose legacy is defined by resilience and the complexities of a changing Europe. For those fascinated by Spanish history, monarchy, and the Napoleonic era, this archive provides an intimate look into the challenges and decisions that shaped King Charles IV’s tumultuous rule.