Mary of Burgundy, Duchess of Burgundy and member of House of Valois-Burgundy - Historical Wax Seal from the 15th Century

This wax seal stamp bears the emblem of Marie de Bourgogne (Mary of Burgundy, 1457–1482), the last reigning Duchess of Burgundy and one of the most sought-after heiresses of the late Middle Ages. As the only child of Charles le Téméraire (Charles the Bold), she inherited the vast and wealthy Burgundian Netherlands after his death at the Battle of Nancy (1477). Her rule marked the turning point of Burgundian power, as European monarchs vied for control over her territories. Marie’s marriage to Maximilien de Habsbourg (Maximilian I of Habsburg) in 1477 forever altered European history, linking the House of Habsburg with the Duchy of Burgundy and laying the foundation for the rise of the Habsburg Empire. This union ignited conflicts with the Kingdom of France, as Louis XI sought to annex Burgundy, leading to the Burgundian Wars. Despite her brief reign, Marie was a patron of the Burgundian court culture, an advocate for her people, and a key figure in shaping the future of the Habsburg dynasty. Her tragic death at just 25 years old, following a horse-riding accident, left her young son Philippe le Beau (Philip the Handsome) as her successor, setting the stage for Habsburg dominance across Europe. This wax seal pays homage to the Duchess of Burgundy, a woman whose life and legacy shaped the course of European history. A perfect piece for lovers of medieval history, Burgundian heritage, and royal dynasties. 🏰 "Je l’ay empris" – I Have Undertaken It!" 🏰