The Lord of the Realm (Swedish: En av rikets herrar, lit. 'one of the lords of the realm') was a title of honour introduced by Gustavus III, King of Sweden shortly after his coup and the newly passed constitution. The title was granted by the King and was first received by Frederick William, Prince von Hessenstein on 15 January 1773 by letter. One of the most famous title holders was Hans Axel, Count von Fersen, the supposed lover and confidant of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France.
The title was not hereditary nor assigned with any function or appointment at the Royal Court or in public life. It was simply meant as a great honour bestowed upon deserving individuals after years of accomplished service to the King and Country. The title holder was styled "Excellency" and ranked equal to Privy Councillors. They also had the right to wear the Privy Councillor's robes. On 10 January 1868, the title was officially defunct.
List of title holders
The following list is in alphabetical order: