SPANISH INQUISITION Illuminated vellum manuscript document

Sale 2127 - Lot 205

Price Realized: $ 5,040

?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price

Estimate: $ 1,000 - $ 2,000

(SPANISH INQUISITION.) Illuminated manuscript document in Spanish conferring the title of familiar de la Inquisición on Diego López Frutos of the town of Lora, written on one side of a single vellum leaf in roman hand in gold with key words in red and authorizing signatures in gold, with painted panel at top in colors, gold, and silver incorporating vignettes of the Crucifixion, SS. Dominic and Peter Martyr, and one-line heading. Remnant of paper seal of the Inquisition in lower left. 536x358 mm; some wear along edges, scattered stains, affecting legibility in 2 places. Seville, 24 January 1663

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The Inquisition in Spain relied on a network of functionaries to extend its power and influence throughout the country. These included so-called familiares, who were voluntary lay servants of the Holy Office. Recruited from the higher levels of society whenever possible, they performed services such as information gathering for the tribunals in exchange for various privileges and recognition of their racial purity.