Comprising:
Pope ALEXANDER VII (1599-1667). Letters patent, Santa Maria Maggiore, Rome, 16 November 1663, presenting him, as Venetian ambassador in Rome, with 'an image painted on a table of jasper' ('pictam in Tabula Jaspidea imaginem') depicting the deposition from the cross, 'supported on columns of jasper and decorated with other ornaments of silver and precious stones'; and also granting him plenary indulgence as long as he owns this work of art and performs one sacrament or good office each week;

Pope CLEMENT X (1590-1676). Three documents, comprising the letters patent by which Basadonna is created cardinal, the pope's secretary Mario Emmanuele Durazio to present him with his biretta, after Basadonna has signed the oath and paid 50 ducats, Rome, 15 June 1673; with a related private letter to Basadonna, 16 June 1673, and bull, 14 March 1673; and a related document of Pompeio Varesio, papal nuncio in Venice, 15 October 1673.

Basadonna received special dispensation to be made cardinal without receiving a tonsure and without taking his vows during the usual canonical period.

Physical description:
On vellum, various sizes, approx. 330 x 470mm (13 x 18½ in.)

Please note this lot is the property of a private consignor.