Description
This exceedingly rare and historically significant artifact is an original c.1788 Spanish royal manuscript document, hand-signed "Yo El Rey" ("I the King") by King Charles IV of Spain. Written in black gall ink on watermarked laid paper, the four-page document (two leafs) measures approximately 8.25" x 11.75". Preserved in exceptional condition, the manuscript reflects the grandeur of royal governance during a turbulent period in Spanish history. Its authenticity and museum-quality preservation make it a one-of-a-kind treasure.
Charles IV (1748–1819) ascended the Spanish throne in 1788, inheriting a kingdom that appeared stable yet faced increasing challenges during his reign. Known for his detestation of his son Ferdinand VII and his controversial reliance on the unpopular first minister Manuel de Godoy, Charles IV's rule was marred by a series of disadvantageous alliances and internal unrest. His reign culminated in his forced abdication in 1808 after the Tumult of Aranjuez, allowing Napoleon Bonaparte to install his brother Joseph Bonaparte as King of Spain. Charles's abdication, along with Ferdinand’s, marked a turning point in Spanish history, paving the way for the Peninsular War and the eventual independence movements across Spain's American colonies.
This manuscript not only exemplifies the formality and symbolism of royal decrees in the 18th century but also serves as a tangible connection to the complexities of Charles IV's reign. The phrase "Yo El Rey" underscored the personal authority of the monarch and was a hallmark of Spanish royal documents. The document's intricate penmanship and the visible watermark further enhance its historical authenticity and artistic value.
As an artifact, it offers an extraordinary insight into the administrative and political affairs of late 18th-century Spain. Its exceptional preservation and direct connection to one of the most tumultuous reigns in Spanish history make it an invaluable addition to any collection of royal documents or European history. This document stands as a testament to the legacy of Charles IV, whose rule bridged the waning influence of the Spanish Empire and the rise of revolutionary forces that would reshape the world.
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