Wife (1451–1504) of King Ferdinand II, known as the 'Catholic Monarchs,' who reigned together over a dynastically unified Spain; they are remembered for initiating the Spanish Inquisition, sponsoring Christopher Columbus's 1492 voyage to the New World, and establishing the Spanish empire. LS in Spanish, signed “Yo La Reyna,” one page, 8.25 x 8, August 25, 1499. Letter ordering her chamberlain, Sancho de Paredes, to give a dress of black serge to one of her daughters. Attractively double-matted and framed with a portrait to an overall size of 20.75 x 14.75. In fine condition.
The present letter was written during Christopher Columbus's third voyage to the New World, one month before her newly appointed administrator arrived in Hispaniola to investigate rumors of Columbus's mistreatment of Spanish colonists. Columbus and his brothers were ultimately arrested and returned to Spain to face the king and queen; after languishing in jail for six weeks, Ferdinand ordered their release; restored their freedom and wealth; and, after much persuasion, agreed to fund Columbus's fourth voyage.
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