Antonio di Pessagno

Antonio di Pessagno was a descendent of the old Genoese noble family who became an important figure in the political and economic life of the 14th century England. Starting in late 13th century, the Genoese merchants opened the direct maritime link with the English and Flemish ports buying their high-quality wool for which was a high demand on the market. Pessagno, who was involved in trade with England, very soon have established close relations with Edward II, the king of England. He provided the sovereign with luxury items, and most importantly, gave him large loans. Eventually, Pessagno was granted a title of the king’s merchant and acted as his major creditor. As security for substantial loans he received the Crown Jewels and numerous other privileges like exemption from taxes on property. He also received proceeds of the tin mines in Cornwall, the right to collect customs revenues for the several major ports for the export of wool, collection of tithing in Ireland and so on.

His economic affluence was followed by growing political influence in the English society. His prominence at the English court was best described in the following words of his contemporary: “He is now in such a condition that he fears nobody, and what he wants is made in the court… and the court is led according to his judgement”.