Letter patent of ennoblement dated August 24, 1740, granted - Lot 112

Letter patent of ennoblement dated August 24, 1740, granted and signed by Charles VI, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, to Count Peter de Lacy (1678–1751), a Grand Officer of Irish descent who became one of the most brilliant field marshals of the Russian Imperial Army. He entered the service of Tsar Peter the Great, devising and leading the capture of the fortress of Azov. He participated in 31 battles, commanded 18 of them, and lost none. After a 50-year career, he ended his life in Riga as governor of Livonia and died in 1751. The volume is bound in crimson velvet and contains an 8-page manuscript on vellum written in Latin. Inside is a gouache painting of the family coat of arms, richly decorated, of fine quality with fresh colors, and in excellent condition; the coat of arms notably depicts the victory over the Turks. It bears the inscription “Honors are earned through merit.” Handwritten signature of Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor. With its closing ribbons; seal missing. Quarto format. In good condition.