Manuscript on Parchment – Decree to the Jews of Mantua Requiring the Wearing of a Yellow Patch – Mantua, 1540

Manuscript on Parchment – Decree to the Jews of Mantua Requiring the Wearing of a Yellow Patch – Mantua, 1540
A large sheet with three decrees by Cardinal Ercole Gonzaga and Duchess Margherita Paleologo Gonzaga, rulers of the Duchy of Mantua. Manuscript on parchment. Mantua, dated October 28, 1540. Latin and Italian.
The first decree refers to the rights and obligations of Jews residing in all areas of the Duchy of Mantua. The preface, in Latin, discusses the tolerance shown by the authorities of Mantua towards their Jewish citizens, and the permit they have been granted to congregate in synagogues and practice their religious ceremonies, rituals and prayers. The main portion of the decree refers to the permit granted to Jews to trade in second-hand textiles and fabrics, and to the limitations and taxes on trading in new textiles. The text also mentions the restriction on Jews employing Christian workers and servants in return for room and board, especially women (except for cases of support for new mothers), and the permit to employ male servants during the daytime, without room and board.
The second decree relates to the obligation of Jews to wear a yellow patch, with details regarding the required shape of the patch and how to sew it onto clothing.
The third decree refers to the ban on Jews doing business with Christians on Christian holidays.
Each decree also details the fines to be paid if the decree is violated.
The last part of the document cites the ban on the abuse of Jews, including offences such as murder, theft, adultery, rape or any other crime.
Signatures of the duchy's secretary and counsel, and others, appear at the bottom of the sheet. 66x52cm. Good-medium condition. A number of stains and tears, some restored, and some of which affect the text. Folded.