The Mystery of History's Only Female Pope

Encased in this Napoleon Ill glass cloche is the story of "La Papesse Jeanne", published in two Tolumes in 1720 by Mr. De Spanheim.

According to popular legend, there was once a female Pope - Pope Joan, who reigned for two years between 855 and 857 AD before coming to a very sticky end. If you've never heard of her, it's hardly surprising as her existence has been questioned for centuries and her name wiped from official history. There are various versions of Pope Joan's life but most present her as a precocious and educated woman who disguised herself as a man totten at the behest of a lover) to ultimately be elected Pope. Her sex was allegedly revealed when she gave birth to her lover's child on the street during a procession, dying shortly afterwards.

Please note: Sold together (two tomes + the story card). 

*Glass case not included*