Grand Master Fra Ferdinand von Hompesch and postal history

Abstract

Over the past three decades philately has expanded into what has become to be known as Postal History, and has developed in an interesting specialised branch, giving the individual with research inclinations, an opportunity to delve into the contents of letters, be it social-political-historical, to research the routes that the letter took to reach its destination, by means of calculating the fiscal postage rates, according to the weight of the letter, usually written in ink, and to decipher and interpret if possible the various hand stamps, and other markings on the letter. The envelope during the period of Grand Master Hompesch was not yet invented. Letters were either folded and enclosed in a separate paper, sealed at the back with either a wax seal or a paper seal, the address being written on the front. Ambassadors, Monarchs and Grand Masters were allowed to seal their letters by folding the letter, and then holding and sealing it together, by means of a strap of paper, called NIZZA to allow for fumigation purposes, which at that time was compulsory, without opening the letter, and thus preserving confidentiality. [excerpt]