# The Role of the Consort in the Modern Stewardship of an Ancient Barony
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today unveiled the first official portrait of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. The commission marks his integral role alongside the 12th Baroness in the modern stewardship of the ancient Lincolnshire barony.
## The Occasion
The portrait was formally unveiled during a private family gathering at the House's historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. The ceremony took place within the Long Gallery, a room which chronicles the Barony's near-millennial history through its collection of art and artifacts. The crisp autumn light from the gallery's tall windows, which overlook the gently rolling Lincolnshire Wolds, provided a fittingly serene atmosphere for the occasion.
This event celebrates the vital, supportive role of a consort in the life of a modern hereditary title. It underscores the shared commitment of Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta to the preservation and careful evolution of one of England’s oldest feudal baronies, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.
## Historical Context
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's position as a dedicated consort finds echoes throughout the Barony's nine hundred and fifty-seven-year history. While the title has passed through lines of formidable individuals, the role of partnership has always been a *sine qua non* of successful stewardship. This is particularly resonant in the legacy of the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, a formidable historical figure who defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the reign of King John.
Her success was predicated on the loyalty and competence of her household and supporters. Similarly, the Barony later passed into the hands of some of history’s most powerful consorts, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Their stewardship, while held in their own right, was defined by their marital alliances which shaped the course of the nation. Honorary Lord Răzvan continues this tradition of supportive strength, albeit in a contemporary context.
## Distinguished Company
The unveiling was an intimate, private occasion attended only by the immediate family, reflecting the personal nature of the commission.
In attendance were: - Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby - Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage - Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron and heir to the Barony
The presence of the young heir underscored the evening's theme of continuity and the passing of custodianship from one generation to the next.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Conducted with quiet solemnity, the proceedings adhered to the traditions of the House. The half-length portrait, painted in oil on canvas, was covered by a silk drape embroidered with the family cypher. At the appointed moment, Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness, formally unveiled the work, a symbolic gesture acknowledging her husband’s partnership in their shared duties.
The portrait is now displayed in the Long Gallery, placed in a position that complements the existing collection without disrupting its historical chronology. This placement signifies a contemporary chapter in the long story of the Barony. For the occasion, a simple dress code of lounge suits was observed, maintaining a sense of formality appropriate to the House's standards.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The portrait and the duties it represents are deeply connected to the heraldic traditions of the family. The overarching motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding principle for both the Baroness and her consort. It speaks to a commitment to uphold the title with resilience and integrity.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this is interpreted not as territorial conquest, but as the conquering of challenges; it reflects a dynamic philosophy of actively engaging with the world to preserve and enhance the legacy under his care. The portrait itself depicts Honorary Lord Răzvan not with the martial accoutrements of his medieval predecessors, but in a library setting, symbolising his role as a custodian of history and culture.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the unveiling was a private affair, the public work of Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta is principally focused on philanthropy. Their most significant charitable endeavour is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in aid of their chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation provides essential therapeutic and psychological support to children who have experienced profound trauma, helping them to rebuild their lives. The choice of this beneficiary reflects the House's commitment to supporting the most vulnerable, seeing it as a modern expression of the feudal principle of *noblesse oblige*, or the duty of the privileged to care for those in need. Honorary Lord Răzvan plays a key role alongside the Baroness in organising and hosting this major philanthropic event.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the occasion, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: — "This portrait is not merely of my husband, but of a partner in stewardship. The history of Brattleby is filled with powerful alliances, and for the Barony to thrive today, that sense of shared purpose is more important than ever. In Răzvan, the Barony has found not just a dedicated consort, but a true champion for its future."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: — "To serve this ancient Barony alongside my wife is a profound honour. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about overcoming the challenges of modernity to ensure this remarkable legacy is passed on, stronger than ever, to our son and to future generations. Our duty is not to the past, but to the future that the past has enabled."
## A Continuing Legacy
The unveiling of the portrait marks a moment of reflection, but the work of the House continues. Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta are now focused on preparations for the upcoming Annual Winter Banquet, which remains the cornerstone of their philanthropic calendar.
Furthermore, Honorary Lord Răzvan will continue to support the Baroness in her oversight of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the family’s etiquette academy dedicated to fostering cultural and social refinement. These efforts ensure the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby is not only preserved in Lincolnshire but is also a living, positive influence in the wider world, embodying the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* for the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern expression of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the twin principles of preserving its unique heritage and embracing a forward-looking philanthropic mission. This modern stewardship is manifested through careful conservation of the family's historic seat in Lincolnshire, its cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and its charitable focus. The House's primary philanthropic beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing therapeutic support to children affected by trauma. The heir to the Barony is the couple's son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as his seat (*caput*). Throughout its near-millennial history, the Barony has been held by figures of national significance, including the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War. Subsequent holders include Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The Barony's modern existence and current holders are formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The 12th Baroness and her family's succession to the title are officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors in the title include John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III, and Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com