Intriguing manuscript DS in French, signed “accorde, Nap,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.75 x 12, February 5, 1808. A report regarding the placement of a coat of arms above the door of a mansion, in part (translated): “In the course of last year, His Majesty King of Naples found appropriate to establish two Consuls in Your Kingdom of Italy, to be known, one general in Zara, the other an individual in Venice, and, according to His Imperial Highness Monsignor Viceroy, these agents were welcomed and acknowledged by the local authorities. Now, the Consul established in Zara, the Senior Abatucci, just formulated a request that gave Mr. Provveditor General of Dalmatia some embarrassment, and for which I must take His Majesty’s orders. That is to be able to put King of Naples [coat of] Arms above his house outside door. In that regard, I would observe that, according to ancient usage, the Consul established either in Venice, or in the country depending of this Republic, and even the Ambassadors and Ministers of foreign powers; had outside their hotel [residence] Arms of their Sovereign. It is also as a consequence of this usage that still presently and even in Zara the Consul of Rome has the Pope’s Arms. I would add that in fact, the same usage was taking place in Naples Kingdom, and that if, by a Decree dated from last September 14, the King has prohibited it for his capital, he has authorized it for other cities with regard to foreign Consuls. It appears therefore that, be it for costumes, be it according to reciprocity rules, it could be appropriate to defer Senior Abatucci’s request.” Napoleon has granted the request in the left margin. In very fine condition. Accompanied by a large book photo of Napoleon. A fascinating document concerning European customs and the tradition of French heraldry. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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