Lot #194

Pope Pius XI

Description

Pope, born Ambrogio Damiano Achille Ratti (1857-1939), who reigned from 1922 until his death and issued encyclicals condemning communism, fascism, and racism. Manuscript vellum DS in Latin, signed “Pius PP XI,” one page, 26.5 x 17.5, October 18, 1926. Pope Pius XI announces to the president and people of Costa Rica that Joseph Fietta, Archbishop of Serdica, has received his Episcopal consecration and that he extends his blessings and good wishes to Costa Rica. Signed prominently at the conclusion by Pope Pius XI. In fine condition, with intersecting folds as issued. Fietta (1883-1960), who had been serving as Apostolic Internuncio to Central America since July 1926, received his Episcopal consecration eight days earlier on October 10, 1926. He later served as Apostolic Nuncio to Haiti and Santa Domingo, Argentina, and Italy, and was eventually made Cardinal in 1958.

Pius XI served as Pope from 1922-39, and he was the first sovereign of Vatican City after it became an independent state in 1929. During his tenure he canonized 34 Saints, including St. Thomas More, Bernadette of Lourdes, St. Therese of Lisieux (the Little Flower), and Don Bosco. He also signed a concordat with Nazi Germany, but four years later condemned the German government after they betrayed the terms. Afterwards, he continually spoke out against Hitler and Mussolini and the evils of Communism and Socialism.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts
• Dates: #578 - Ended March 04, 2020

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