ABSTRACT
It had been the rule, in fact, for a new king to take over at least some members of his predecessor’s household. At his accession in 1515 Francis reappointed many of Louis XII’s officials; and those who were too old or feeble to be of use were pensioned off. The kings of France had from the earliest times surrounded themselves with boon companions and servants; but it was only by degrees that their household became a well-regulated institution. Its development can be traced from the thirteenth century through a series of royal ordinances. A study of the payrolls suggests a notable increase in the size of the French court from about the end of the fifteenth century. The court also included four special departments. The argenterie was responsible for the purchase of clothes, furniture and other necessities. Many people, not actually on the staff of the court, had to attend frequently on state business.
