A rare certificate of assistance issued by Emperor Napoleon I. On vellum bearing the letterhead of the House of the Emperor and King, featuring the grand imperial coat of arms “BY THE EMPEROR AND KING.” Issued to Alexandre-François Loisel, born in 1783. Dated Paris, April 10, 1811; bearing the signature and dry seal of the Grand Marshal of the Palace, General Duroc, Duke of Frioul, and of the Secretary General of the Palace, Leduc. 47 x 38 cm A.B.E. (Two inscriptions previously re-stamped). First Empire period. It appears that the recipient of this certificate was the painter Alexandre-François Loisel (1783–1865). The “Bouche de l’Empereur” (Imperial Kitchen) department was supervised by Grand Marshal Duroc, who was also responsible for the Emperor’s security, the dining service, and the housing and maintenance of the palaces. The Bouche department was responsible for the Emperor’s provisions, cooking, and meals.