The bulla is from the pontificate of Pope Boniface VIII who reigned from 1294-1303. It is a rare artifact and a great addition to the Collection.

The word, bull, comes from the Latin, bubble. It is the lead seal that was appended to the end of a document acting as the signature of the pope. On one side, it contains the pope’s name and on the other, images of Saints Peter and Paul from whom he is given his authority.

The bull is generally an official document of the Holy Father. We know by the choice of threading used, either silk or twine, the importance of any particular bull.