Fontes / Sources
PT/TT/CHR/K/21/27-131 (1503) acessível em https://digitarq.arquivos.pt/details?id=3867780 acedido em 29/5/2018
PT/TT/CHR/K/28/36-168 (1497) acessível em https://digitarq.arquivos.pt/details?id=3870864 acedido em 29/5/2018
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Rui Martins was an artisan of the elite of the county who had the privilege, as the main king's doorman, to open the door to the king, having twice been honoured by King D. Manuel I
Rui Martins was a craftsman who worked the tin mixed with lead, resident (‘neighbour‘) of Tavira, considered a ‘Good Man’ of the county (the elite of the municipalities), and, as such, held a post in the administration, in this case, he was the main king's doorman, it was up to him to open the door to the king. He was honoured twice by King D. Manuel I.
The profession of tin and brass craftsman was highly specialized, therefore, highly regarded, constituting the elite of the artisans. This craftsman worked the tin (mixed with lead), making small pieces of crockery, like simple cups, chalices, bowls, plates, even jugs and pots, and also lanterns, crosses, and fountains, among many more pieces of crafts. The procedure for obtaining the license required for this public function was so demanding that one had to pass an examination carried out in the judge's house by two licensed craftsmen, and in accordance with the approved rules. Then, the "examination letter" was taken to the City Council to be read, confirmed and registered under oath and signed by the clerk. Hence the recognition of the king to who had the license. Only then could the artisan set up a workshop and a tent to sell their goods and take orders.
Rui Martins was so highly recognized in what he did that first, in the year 1497, he was honoured by the king with tax exemption. According to the source, the king exempted him from paying the following taxes: Peitas (fines); Fintas, Pedidos and Talhas (municipal contributions when taxes did not cover expenses); New Services (Tax paid by the Jews in the reign of King D. Afonso V, amounting to 300,000 pounds annually); Loans. Then, in 1503, he was awarded with half of a farm which had belonged to an adulterous mason, who had killed his wife and had fled to the kingdom of Castile. The other half of this farm was given to the mother of the victim, Rui Martins ' mother in law.
The King honours Rui Martins