Author: EMPEROR FRANZ JOSEPH I (1830-1916)
Title: Emperor Franz Joseph Grant of Arms and Nobility Signed, Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Description: 1859. Hardcover, 29cm x 38cm. Manuscrit, Seven partially printed and calligraphic pages on four leaves, 11.5" x 15", December 20, 1859. The document bestows the Imperial Austrian Order of the Iron Crown (Orden der Eisernen Krone) on Professor Doctor Franz Pitha. It also grants the title of Ritter (knight) on Doctor Pitha, elevates him to the Austrian nobility, and grants heraldic arms. The document is contained in a magnificent, bright red embossed velvet cover with the detailed Imperial Austrian arms in gold. The inside covers are a very light blue moiré silk. The seal of Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph in red wax, and encased in the original 4.5" bronze doré skippet, is attached to the document by a gold bullion and silk cord. The entire document, including the seal and skippet are contained in a fitted tin case (12.25" x 21.5"). The seven partially printed pages are hand-lettered in black ink with some gold highlights. The document chronicles the life and achievements of Dr. Pitha from his birth in 1810 in Bohemia, through his medical training at the University of Prague, his teaching career as a professor of surgery at Charles University in Prague, and as chair of surgery at Josephs Academy in Vienna. The Emperor honored Pitha for service as chief of field medical services for the Austrian Army in the Italian Wars of Independence. Dr. Pitha dramatically improved Austrian military hygiene and the treatment of battle-related injuries. The document is boldly signed by Emperor Franz Joseph and countersigned by Agenor Goluchowski, Minister of Interior. Excellent. Photos available upon request. Very good condition. Signed By the Author.

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