Maritime Mail of Spanish Colonies in America

Peru Incoming Mail 1647, Jan. 30. Folded cover from Rome to Lima, sent by the "Casa General de la Compañía de Jesús" (Headquarters of the Society of Jesus) to the Deputy Province Chief of the Jesuitic Society. Docketed on front at left in manuscript, including the date of the letter and a summary of the contents: "Select a procurator for Rome whose task is to ensure no changes in the old procedures for this province, which have been those in the full congregation". Reverse showing red "Proposit Generalis Societariesvs" wax seal. Mail from Rome to America (ecclesiastical mail) had to be carried in Spanish ships departing from Seville or Cádiz, being previously transported overland. The regular maritime route was Rome-Madrid-Seville-Cartagena de Indias, continuing its journey overland to destination via Santa Fe (Bogotá) and Quito. The earliest cover recorded addressed to America and originating from a country not possessing colonies in this continent. One of the greatest gems of the early stampless mails of the World.