DIPLOMA OF NOBILITY. Vienna, 1917. Large in-4, bound in relief in sand morocco, on the upper cover inlaid in an ornate gilt metal frame with red coins and spandrels in the same taste, large enamelled arms of the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I, supported by two lions in gilt metal; the volume and the seal attached to it are contained in a varnished wooden box of the period, lined with green silk fleece, the upper cover glazed to reveal the binding. Diploma of nobility granted to Sebastian Hammerschmid, first lieutenant of the 4th Train Division, whose presentation is astonishing in its luxury and richness. The volume consists of 4 large leaves of vellum skin, calligraphed and ornamented in colour and raised with gold dots. One of them bears the recipient's coat of arms in gouache. The spectacular binding remains in perfect condition thanks to its protective case. Provenance: Sale of historical memorabilia from the Olivier Aaron collection, 8 October 2019, no. 20. Lot presented by Anne Lamort.