King of France Louis XV Signed Royal Military Document Letter Royalty Autograph

Description

This rare and historically significant artifact is an original antique military appointment letter, hand-signed \”Louis\” by King Louis XV of France, and dated October 27, 1734, at Fontainebleau. The document formally appoints Mr. de Clermont-Gallerande to the rank of Second Lieutenant in the Charbonniers Company of the Orleans Infantry Regiment. The appointment was made to fill a vacancy created by the prior lieutenant, La Guinier, who had abandoned the post. The king instructs the recipient to take immediate possession of the position and assumes the responsibilities of the role. The letter concludes with a blessing, characteristic of the formality and decorum of royal correspondence during Louis XV’s reign.

The manuscript measures approximately 8.25\” x 9.75\” and is housed in an elegant gold gilt genuine wood frame, measuring 21.5\” x 17.5\”. This presentation complements the historical importance of the document, making it an exquisite piece for display. Despite its age, the letter has been preserved in excellent condition, maintaining its authenticity and the clarity of its text.

The original French text of the letter reads:
\”Monsieur, Mr. de Clermont Gallerande ayant donné à vous S. la charge de Lieutenant en second, la charge de Lieutenant de la Compie de Charbonniers dans le Régiment d’infanterie d’Orleans que vous commandez, vacante par l’abandon de la Guinier, je vous écris cette lettre pour vous dire que vous ayez à en terrouir et faire recevoir en tant que charge dudit corps, et ainsi qu’il appartient, au présent instant ; et prier Dieu qu’il vous ait, Monsieur de Clermont Gallerande, en Sa garde.

Ecrit à Fontainebleau le vingt septième Octobre 1734
*Louis.\”

Translated into English, it states:
\”Monsieur, Mr. de Clermont-Gallerande having given to you, Sir, the position of Second Lieutenant in the charge of Lieutenant of the Company of Charbonniers in the Regiment of Infantry of Orleans, which you command, vacant by the abandonment of La Guinier, I am writing to you to inform you that you have to immediately take possession of said charge of lieutenant, as well as what depends on it, at the present instant, and, I ask God that he keeps you, Sir, in his holy protection.

At Fontainebleau, October 27, 1734
*Louis.\”

This document captures the formal administrative style of the French monarchy during the Ancien Régime and provides a fascinating glimpse into military appointments and governance. It reflects the hierarchical nature of military organization under Louis XV, who sought to maintain order and discipline within his army. Such appointments were integral to the functioning of the French military and the broader administrative structure of the kingdom.

Louis XV, known as \”Louis the Beloved\” (le Bien-Aimé), reigned from 1715 to 1774, succeeding his great-grandfather, Louis XIV. His reign spanned both the height and decline of the French monarchy\’s influence, marked by significant military campaigns, political intrigue, and cultural flourishing. This letter, written during a period of relative stability, illustrates the king’s role in direct military oversight and his reliance on the nobility to manage the armed forces.

The Clermont-Gallerande family, although part of the French nobility, is not widely documented in 18th-century records, underscoring the uniqueness of this piece as a window into the lives of less prominent yet vital figures in the kingdom\’s administration. This military commission is not only a testament to Louis XV\’s governance but also an invaluable artifact that bridges the gap between royal authority and the individuals who served under it. Its historical importance, combined with its aesthetic presentation, makes it a captivating addition to any collection of 18th-century French memorabilia or royal documents.