Ineffectual king of France from 1715 to 1774 who was dominated by his strong-willed and unscrupulous mistress, Madame de Pompadour. Advised of the growing discontent among his people, Louis prophetically observed “Après moi le déluge”—After me the flood—an apt prediction of the impending French Revolution. Manuscript DS, signed “Louis,” one page on vellum, 20 x 13.25, December 10, 1716. A secretarially penned marriage license. In fine condition, with usual folds and light wrinkling, mild scattered soiling and staining, and large cut cancellation to lower portion, affecting blank area only. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
