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Letter from George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, to James I, 25th April 1623. Artist: George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham
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Letter from George Villiers, Duke of Buckingham, to James I, 25th April 1623. Artist: George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham
Letter from George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham, to James I, 25th April 1623. Letter signed Steenie and written while Villiers was with Charles, Prince of Wales at Madrid, urging him to send more jewels to his babie both for his own wear and for presents, and stating, in a postscript that he has dispatched four asses, five camels and and an elephant, which he has impudently begged for him. From the fourth series of Facsimiles of royal, historical, literary and other autographs in the Department of Manuscripts, British Museum: Series I - V, (London, 1899)
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Media ID 14910392
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1st Duke Of 1st Duke Of Buckingham Buckingham Camel Camels Correspondence Donkey Duke Duke Of Duke Of Buckingham Elephant Facsimile George Villiers Gift James I James Vi James Vi Of Scotland Jewel King James I King James Vi Of Scotland King Of England Letter Present Signature Villiers Print Collector3
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a historical artifact that offers a glimpse into the intriguing correspondence between George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham, and King James I. Dated 25th April 1623, this letter holds immense significance as it was written by Villiers while he accompanied Charles, Prince of Wales in Madrid. The letter itself is an exquisite example of seventeenth-century handwriting and bears the personal touch of Villiers' signature - "Steenie". Its contents reveal his urgent plea to the king for more jewels to adorn both himself and others as gifts. The duke's desire for opulent accessories reflects the lavishness associated with royalty during this era. What makes this piece even more fascinating is a postscript where Villiers audaciously mentions dispatching four donkeys, five camels, and an elephant on behalf of King James I. This unexpected addition adds an element of whimsy to the otherwise formal nature of their correspondence. Preserved within this facsimile from the British Museum's Department of Manuscripts collection, this print allows us to appreciate not only its aesthetic beauty but also its historical value. It serves as a testament to the close relationship between two influential figures in English history - George Villiers and King James I - shedding light on their shared interests in luxury items and exotic animals. Overall, this print provides a unique window into a specific moment in time when royal communication blended practical matters with extravagant requests.
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