A white papal zucchetto, personally owned and worn by H.H. Pope Pius X (pp. 1903-1914). A Pope is often defined by his white outfit; a tradition started by Pope Innocent V in 1276. The single most important, significant, and iconic part of the clothing is the small white hat, also known as a zucchetto or a calotte. From the moment he wakes up, until the moment he falls asleep, the white zucchetto is placed on the head of the Pope.

It’s indeed very uncommon for items like this to leave the Vatican. The zucchetto is slightly discolored on the inside due to being heavily used. Accompanied by an exclusive custom-made mahogany box with red inner velvet pieces and gold details, with a personalized gold-plated name sign on the outside of the box.

Provenance: Certification from the Vatican dated 1911, written in French “Calotte portèe par Sa Saintetè Pie X” (English: ”Used calotte by His Holiness Pius X”); Private collection, Italy; Letter of authenticity from Alexander Bitar History.

Donated to: The Vatican Museum, Vatican City.

Funded by: Mr. Alexander Bitar, 2018.