Chamberlain's Key To Napoleon I

Gilt and chiseled bronze, First Empire, circa 1805 Rare and prestigious chamberlain's key in gilt bronze, finely chiseled, decorated with the imperial eagle surmounted by the crown of the Lombards and a shield stamped with the number "N" of Napoleon I. The decoration combines several major emblems of the First Empire: The Napoleonic eagle holding the thunderbolt, symbol of imperial power. The Lombard crown, recalling the coronation of Napoleon as King of Italy in 1805. The imperial number N inscribed on a shield. A bee, dynastic symbol chosen by the Emperor, sign of immortality and historical continuity with the Merovingian monarchy. These keys, worn by the chamberlains, constituted an official insignia of office and privileged access to the imperial person. Rare object steeped in history, witness to the pomp and ceremony of the court at the beginning of the 19th century. Period: First Empire, circa 1805 Material: gilded and chiseled bronze Dimensions: length 17 cm – width 7 cm Condition: very good general condition, slight period patina Private collection Free worldwide shipping