Philip IV, King of Spain & Portugal Boldly Signed Document with Beautiful Presentation

A document in Spanish boldly signed by Philip IV (1605-1665), then King of Spain and Portugal, as "yo El Rey &" [trans: "I the King &c."] at the center. The signature alone measures approximately 3" square. Signed in Madrid, Spain on August 20, 1637. Inscribed overall in very legible secretarial script, with a row of monograms or unknown clerical markings appearing near the bottom. Light overall toning and expected folds, with minor chipped or wrinkled edges. Light ink bleed-through from the reverse mostly confined to the top. Displayed in a floating mount to the left of a high-quality photo reproduction of Diego Velázquez's portrait of Philip IV, ca. 1644. Expected wear including isolated loss to frame corners, else near fine. The overall size of the document is 8" x 11.75" while the overall size of the frame is 22.125" x 18.75" x 1.375."

The document is untranslated and should yield many fascinating discoveries. We've been able to pick out a few key terms shedding possible light on relevant people and places, but there's much more to fill in. The document appears to concern the sale of land in a place called Nachuelos y Alcanalas. An individual named General Don Lope Deoces y Cordona, who belonged to the Order of Santiago and was a minister of the Indian Wars, was somehow involved. The Order of Santiago is a religious and military order affiliated with the Spanish crown which was established in the 12th century. "Indian Wars" was a loose term referring to any military conflict in the New World.

Philip IV is remembered for administering a Spanish Empire slowly in decline. Philip IV's role in the Thirty Years' War, a succession crisis followed by a territorial grab, worsened the political climate. He served as King of Spain between 1621 and his death in 1665, and as King of Portugal between 1621-1640.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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