Privileges Accorded to the Heirs of Samson Morpurgo, Granted by Filippo Lancellotti, Prefect of the Apostolic Palace, Rome: 1787

1 sheet (18 ¾  x 22 ¾ in.; 480 x 580 mm). Gouache and ink on parchment, issued and signed by Filippo Lancellotti, prefect of the Apostolic Palace, with his seal affixed; surmounted by the coats of arms of both Lancellotti and Pope Pius VI. Creased at folds.

 

This illuminated document reaffirmed the rights of the heirs of Samson Morpurgo to act as superintendents of merchandise arriving at the port of Ancona and intended for use in the Apostolic Palace. Samson Morpurgo (1681–1740), a distinguished Italian rabbi, author and physician served as the Chief Rabbi of Ancona from 1721 onwards. In 1730, during a severe influenza outbreak, Morpurgo distinguished himself as a physician, treating both Jews and Christians, earning the commendation of Cardinal Prospero Lambertini, who would later go on to become Pope Benedict XIV. This privilege granted to his heirs serves as a testimony to the favor still enjoyed by subsequent generations of the Morpurgo family, likely a result of the public service that Rabbi Samson Morpurgo had performed decades earlier. 

Decorated in gouache and ink on parchment, with gilt illumination. Issued and signed by Filippo Lancellotti, prefect of the Apostolic Palace, with his seal affixed; surmounted by the coats of arms of both Lancellotti and Pope Pius VI.