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Lord of the Realm

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En af rikets herrar (in Swedish) or Lord of the Realm was a title introduced by King Gustaf III of Sweden after his bloodless coup d'état in 1772, and after the new constitution was passed by the Riksdag of the Estates. The title was not hereditary and was not connected with any special function or appointment at court or in public life. It was simply meant as a great honour bestowed upon deserving individuals (noblemen) after years of successful service to the King and the country.

The title gave the holder the same rank as a privy councillor, and he could use it in his title, e.g.:

His Excellency The High Well Born Count Axel von Fersen, one of the Lords of the Realm, Knight of the Royal Order of the Seraphim, Commander Grand Cross of the Royal Order of the Sword

The title was officially dropped on January 10, 1868.

One of the most famous recipients of this title and honour was Count Axel von Fersen the Younger the supposed lover and confidant of Queen Marie Antoinette of France.

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