The Creation of France

Chapter 10 : Berry and Dauphiné

Berry

Berry was another appanage, created for Jean (1340 – 1416), son of Jean III of France and Bonne of Luxembourg, at the same time as his brothers, Louis and Philip, received Anjou and Burgundy respectively. Jean of Berry was one of the regents for the young Charles VI, and became embroiled in the rivalry between the Burgundians and Armagnacs that gave Henry V of England the chance to attack a weakened France. His sons predeceased him, so the duchy lapsed, although his daughters, Marie and Bonne, inherited various lands.

Jean is best known for his Trés Riches Heures – one of the greatest of all mediaeval manuscripts. 

New Year Gifts Being Exchanged Trés Riches Heures Of Duke Of Berry
New Year gifts being exchanged from Trés Riches Heures of duc du Berry

Dauphiné (Viennois)

Dauphiné or Viennois (usually known as Dauphiné), to the north of the county of Provence, had been one of the vassal states of the Holy Roman Empire since 1037. In 1349, Humbert II of Viennois sold his rights to Philip VI of France,  on condition that the heir to the French throne would hold the title of Dauphin, and that the people of the territory would be exempt from certain French taxes. The territory was fully integrated with France on the succession of Louis XI, whose father had granted him Dauphiné in appanage.