Henry III of France – Document Signed, Grant of Royal Privilege, 1580
Rare manuscript document signed “Henry” by Henry III, King of France and Poland (1551–1589), issued from Paris on November 26, 1580, during the height of the French Wars of Religion. Written in early modern French on fine vellum, this royal decree measures approximately 11.25" x 15.5" when fully open, and bears the bold signature of the king alongside those of royal secretaries on the recto.In this formal letter of patent, Henry III extends a personal royal privilege to Jean Dumoulin, a silk cloth tailor of Grenoble, granting him the rare right to wear a sword and dagger—a status symbol and exemption from common restrictions. The king’s decision is based on favorable reports from royal commissioners attesting to Dumoulin’s loyalty, honorable conduct, and good reputation. The letter explicitly commands all judicial and administrative officials to respect and uphold this exemption without obstruction.
The document is in fine condition, with crisp, legible script and minimal age wear, and features an especially striking autograph “Henry” near the lower left. A significant artifact from the turbulent late Valois monarchy, illustrating both the personalization of royal authority and the bureaucratic elegance of the French court.