This charter is in the form of letters patent of inspeximus and confirmation by Edward I to the Chancellor and Masters of the University of Cambridge confirming the privileges of the University granted by Henry III, and an agreement between the Scholars and Burgesses for the punishment of disturbers of the peace by a representative group from both sides. Bears a Great Seal (incomplete and repaired) on silk strings.
The preparation, writing and sealing of a royal charter was the business of the Royal Chancery in London. But the addition of the illumination could be left to the grantee to supply later on. This document contains one of the earliest examples of illumination produced in Cambridge. The illuminated initial shows the King presenting the charter to (on the left, standing) a Doctor of Canon Law wearing the 'cappa clausa' with two slits and (on the right, standing) a Doctor of Civil Law wearing the 'cappa manicata'. The two kneeling figures are Doctors of Theology wearing the 'cappe clause'. Their degrees can be deduced from their academical dress.