So, in the case of Ferdinand's marriage, what was the reason for the requirement of the King of Spain's approval? The fact that he was the head of the Spanish branch of the House of Bourbon from which the Parma branch was derived, or the Infante's age? Maybe both?
The King never explains it explicitly in these letters. I would think it's because Charles III is the head of Ferdinand's paternal family. It is plain that Ferdinand of Parma had to wait for Ferdinand of Naples's marriage to be settled first, and that the latter had the first choice of the available archduchesses.
To us it's strange that they all lived in separate palaces often in different countries,it's not our idea of "family life" but these letters show they did care for each other.
Sancerre is such a good choice!
I adore Sancerre, but what's the connection?
Oh, wait. I see. The tip jar, lol.
So, in the case of Ferdinand's marriage, what was the reason for the requirement of the King of Spain's approval? The fact that he was the head of the Spanish branch of the House of Bourbon from which the Parma branch was derived, or the Infante's age? Maybe both?
The King never explains it explicitly in these letters. I would think it's because Charles III is the head of Ferdinand's paternal family. It is plain that Ferdinand of Parma had to wait for Ferdinand of Naples's marriage to be settled first, and that the latter had the first choice of the available archduchesses.
To us it's strange that they all lived in separate palaces often in different countries,it's not our idea of "family life" but these letters show they did care for each other.
I agree. It's the aspect of Louis XV as a grandfather that drew me to these letters.