Details
Description
An exceptional and fully authentic 19th‑century Prussian royal military commission, dated March 6, 1849, and personally signed by King Friedrich …
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An exceptional and fully authentic 19th‑century Prussian royal military commission, dated March 6, 1849, and personally signed by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV at Charlottenburg Palace. This formal “Patent” appoints Premier Lieutenant von Bieberstein to the rank of Hauptmann (Captain) within the 1st Engineer Inspection Corps, one of the most technically prestigious branches of the Prussian military.
The document is executed in exquisite German calligraphy on laid paper and retains its original embossed royal seal, a hallmark of Prussian state authority. A second manuscript sheet accompanies the commission, both preserved together in a professionally framed, museum‑style presentation featuring a burgundy mat and gilt‑accented frame. The visual impact is striking — a rare blend of historical gravitas and decorative elegance.
Medium: Handwritten ink on laid paper with embossed royal seal
Origin: Prussia (Germany), 1849
Author: King Friedrich Wilhelm IV (autograph signature)
Dimensions: Approx. 22" × 16" framed
Condition: Paper exhibits expected toning, creasing, and minor edge wear consistent with its 175‑year age. Frame shows light scuffing from early‑2000s mounting.
Provenance: Privately held; framed by Ridley Images Inc., Aiken, SC, circa 2000.
Historical Significance:
This commission was issued during the turbulent aftermath of the Revolutions of 1848–49, a period that reshaped political power across Europe. King Friedrich Wilhelm IV, known for his conservative governance and architectural patronage, oversaw a Prussian military undergoing rapid modernization. Documents bearing his signature — especially military promotions within elite engineering units — are highly sought after for their connection to the era that ultimately set the stage for German unification under Prussian leadership.
Why This Piece Stands Out:
Authentic royal signature and intact Prussian state seal
Rare military commission from a politically pivotal year
Elegant 19th‑century calligraphy suitable for display
Museum‑quality framing and presentation
Highly desirable among collectors of European history, militaria, and royal manuscripts
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- Dimensions
- 26ʺW × 1.5ʺD × 22ʺH
- Frame Type
- Framed
- Art Subjects
- Other
- Period
- Mid 19th Century
- Country of Origin
- Germany
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Paper
- Pen and Ink
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Burgundy
- Condition Notes
- Collector Note: Royal‑signed Prussian military commissions from the mid‑19th century rarely appear on the open market, especially with intact seals … moreCollector Note: Royal‑signed Prussian military commissions from the mid‑19th century rarely appear on the open market, especially with intact seals and full calligraphic text. Documents from the 1848–49 revolutionary period are particularly sought after due to their political and military significance. This example, signed by King Friedrich Wilhelm IV, represents a premium tier of European militaria and manuscript collecting. Privately held since the early 2000s, this document was professionally framed by Ridley Images Inc. (Aiken, SC) and is under non-glare glass. The piece originates from a 19th‑century Prussian military archive and retains its original royal seal, signature, and period calligraphy. No alterations have been made to the document since framing. less
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