1940s - 1960s State of The Vatican City
DESCRIPTION
An uncommon and richly illustrated pictorial map of Vatican City, combining a detailed plan of the world's smallest independent state with architectural views, religious imagery, and symbols of the Roman Catholic Church. Designed by Kent Wetherill, the map combines a detailed plan of Vatican City with illustrations of its principal buildings, religious figures, and biblical scenes associated with the history of the Catholic Church.
A Pictorial Tour of Vatican City
The central map depicts Vatican City within its irregular boundaries, identifying principal landmarks including St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Palace, Vatican Library, and Vatican Gardens. Buildings, pathways, courtyards, and landscaped grounds are individually illustrated, providing a detailed overview of the Vatican's compact territory.
Surrounding the plan are architectural views, portraits of saints, and elaborate religious imagery. A large crucifix occupies the upper portion, accompanied by the papal tiara and crossed keys of St. Peter. Additional illustrations depict the dome and facade of St. Peter's Basilica, while biblical scenes include Christ presenting the keys to St. Peter and washing the feet of his disciples. Decorative borders of floral motifs, angels, and ecclesiastical symbols complete the design.
Dating the Map
Although undated, several details help establish a probable period of publication. Vatican City became an independent sovereign state in 1929 under the Lateran Treaty, while a quotation from Pope Pius XII reproduced on the map provides a more definitive clue. The passage comes from his appeal for peace delivered on March 3, 1939, establishing that the map could not have been published in its present form before that date.
The central plan also appears to omit the Paul VI Audience Hall, completed in 1971, suggesting an earlier publication, although this is not conclusive given the map's illustrative character. Together, these details suggest a probable publication date between the 1940s and 1960s.
CONDITION
1200 W. 35th Street #425 Chicago, IL 60609 | P: (312) 496 - 3622