June 10, 1961: An Illuminated Manuscript Signed by Pope St. Paul VI as Archbishop, & Historical Information about the Recipient

This artifact is an original, illuminated manuscript signed by Archbishop Giovanni Battista Montini, the future Pope St.Paul VI. The content involved the appointment of a priest, Don Attilio Bassi, and it is dated June 10th, 1961, the feast of Saint Albino di Monza.

There are floral motifs that are hand-painted on vellum, as well as a portrait of  Don Bassi in the upper left-hand corner. The Glossary contains a definition of Vellum.

The Papal Artifacts Collection contains only two illuminated manuscripts. This is a very beautiful addition, and it is in perfect condition.

The recipient of  the  illuminated manuscript is featured in this article about the Italian resistance to fascism:

In Vimercate, the resistance struggle developed on a largely unitary fabric, with the assistance and sharing also of the local Clergy, in the persons of Don Enrico Assi, Don Attilio Bassi and Don Luigi Sala.

He was very much considered a hero, like all his community, for his leadership and courage during this struggle.  This information adds  “flesh” to an already beautiful manuscript signed by Archbishop Giovani Battista Montini, the future Pope St. Paul VI. 

Also, as a young priest, Giovanni Montini (Paul VI) was deeply involved in the Catholic Action movement–even to having his office bombed at one point because of his influence and work.

NOTE: The priest in the photo is not Don Bassi, but he is featured in the article connected to the photo.