Description
This rare and historically significant royal decree, issued under the authority of Paul, King of the Hellenes (Παλος Βασιλες των Ελλνων) in 1958, is a ceremonial and legal artifact reflecting the governance and administrative processes of mid-20th-century Greece. Boldly hand-signed "Paul" in fountain pen ink by King Paul himself, this one-of-a-kind document conveys the formality and grandeur of the Greek monarchy. Its content details a formal appointment, promotion, or recognition, likely within the academic or governmental spheres, showcasing the meticulous attention given to such honors.
The decree references Greek legislative acts, including Laws 936/1949 and 231/1952, which outline the legal frameworks for promotions and recognitions. It documents a proposal brought forth by a ministerial council or committee, adhering to the structured bureaucratic process of the Greek state. Central to the document is the acknowledgment of the recipient’s character, service, and contributions, emphasizing their merit and qualifications as justification for the bestowed honor or elevation. Words like "προαγωγς" (promotion) and references to academic or professional advancements suggest the recipient may have been a professor or an official whose contributions warranted royal recognition.
This document is adorned with the King’s bold and elegant signature, "Paul," written in fountain pen ink, reinforcing its personal and formal nature. Original government stamps, markings, and handwritten notations further enhance its authenticity, creating a vivid connection to the bureaucratic and ceremonial aspects of Greek royal administration. These stamps and annotations not only add to the document's visual appeal but also attest to its official use within the legal and governmental machinery of the era.
Measuring an impressive 16.5 by 13.5 inches, the document is preserved in excellent, museum-quality condition, showcasing its historical significance and craftsmanship. The formatting reflects the formality of royal decrees, combining striking typography with official seals and symbols of the Greek state. Countersigned by officials from the Ministry of National Education and Religious Affairs (Υπουργεο Εθνικς Παιδεας και Θρησκευμτων), the decree underscores the collaboration between the monarchy and governmental institutions in overseeing appointments, promotions, and recognitions.
This artifact offers a captivating glimpse into the inner workings of King Paul’s reign, a period marked by political and cultural evolution in post-World War II Greece. King Paul, who ruled from 1947 to 1964, played a key role in stabilizing the nation during a tumultuous era. His personal involvement in signing such decrees highlights the ceremonial and administrative role of the monarchy during his reign. This decree, with its intricate legal references, official markings, and the King’s unmistakable signature, stands as a tangible connection to a bygone era of Greek history.
As a one-of-a-kind document from a private collection, it is an irreplaceable piece of royal and administrative history. Its exceptional preservation, historical context, and the personal signature of King Paul make it a highly valuable addition to any collection of royal artifacts, legal documents, or Greek historical memorabilia. This decree is more than a document; it is a remarkable testament to the cultural and political legacy of Greece under King Paul’s monarchy.
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