Bonhams 1793 : HENRY VIII. Initial letter portrait, 1540

Initial letter portrait of Henry VIII, showing the crowned King enthroned holding orb and sceptre, on a grant to John Wyberd of High Ongar, Essex, of Trinity Marsh, formerly belonging to Stratford Langthorne Abbey, the portrait finely executed in pen-and-ink and grey wash, the canopy headed "Vivat Rex", with elaborate strapwork majuscules to first line, ascenders interspersed with heraldic emblems; with a good intact impression of the Great Seal in brown wax suspended by green silk cords; auditor's endorsement of Thomas Wyseman, one membrane of vellum, minor dust-staining and rubbing but overall in fine fresh and attractive condition, 415 x 690mm, Westminster, 26 November 1540

Sold for £13,750 inc. premium

Footnotes

PORTRAIT AND SEAL OF HENRY VIII ON A GRANT OF FORMER MONASTERY LAND: this most attractive deed dates from just two years after the dissolution of the great Cistercian Abbey of St Mary, Stratford Langthorne, Essex (also known as West Ham Abbey). Situated in present-day Stratford and owning most of Newnham as well as extensive lands in Essex, it had been founded in 1135 and was at the time of its dissolution the fifth largest in England, ranking with its sisters at Rievaulx and Fountains.

Category: Books / Books, Maps and Manuscripts

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