Holy Roman Emperor MATTHIAS I Signed 1592 Plea to Pope Clement Autograph * PSA

Exceptional Letter Signed by Holy Roman Emperor Matthias I Addressed to Pope Clement VIII Beseeching him for an Appointment

Holy Roman Emperor MATTHIAS (1557 - 1619) scarce 434-year-old manuscript document signed from Vienna, October 20, 1592 to POPE CLEMENT VIII, boldly signed at lower right.

Written in Latin while Matthias was Archduke of Austria, the letter urges the newly elected Pope to elevate ALBERTO CAPRIANO (CAVRIANI), Bishop of Alba, to the College of Cardinals. Matthias indicates that he had previously interceded on Capriano's behalf and now reminds the Pope of his request, and of his emissary.

In full,
"Most Holy Father in Christ,
Although I have not the least doubt that Your Holiness will graciously and paternally regard my intercessions on behalf of the Bishop of Albano, that he may be admitted into the number of the Cardinals, nevertheless I have wished to omit nothing; and therefore, in order both to remind Your Holiness concerning this matter and duly to commend myself to you, I have entrusted this business, on the present occasion, to Johann Robert, the Imperial [Caesarean] envoy sent to Your Holiness.
Referring myself, as to the rest, to him, I obediently commend myself to Your Holiness, and pray that Your Holiness may long survive for the welfare of the Church of God.
Given at Vienna, 20 October 1592.
Your Holiness's
most obedient son,
Matthias"

The address panel clearly identifies the Pope:
"To the Most Holy and Most Blessed Father in Christ and Lord, Lord Clement VIII, by Divine Providence Supreme Pontiff of the Most Holy Roman and Universal Church, my most revered Lord".

NOTE: the identification of “Episcopo Albano” as Alberto Capriano is inferential rather than stated by name in the letter. But given that Capriano indisputably occupied the See of Alba on October 20, 1592 and independent sources specifically document Matthias' brother, Holy Roman Emperor Rudolf II's attempt to secure a cardinalate for him, the inference is strong.

The effort ultimately failed, as Capriano died in 1595 without becoming a cardinal.



The MATTHIAS document has been thoroughly examined and CERTIFIED AUTHENTIC BY PSA/DNA EXPERT EXAMINATION – your assurance of absolute authenticity. GUARANTEED GENUINE. A museum-quality acquisition for any collection.


Condition is as shown, consistent with nearly 435 years of age, wear, use and handling. Small split at left middle fold. Document measures appx. 7.5" x 11.75" overall. Please review all images carefully for exact condition.


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