The narrative of passport history not only imparts insights into the progression of passport forms and content but also serves as a compelling chronicle of individuals, events, and geography. A noteworthy illustration of this is found in the exquisite German passport crafted by Gustav Ernst von der Schulenburg-Priemern, the Prussian envoy to Waldeck and Lippe, for the distinguished sculptor Karl Hassenpflug.

Karl Hassenpflug

Hassenpflug’s parents were the Hessian minister Ludwig Hassenpflug and his wife Charlotte Grimm, the only sister of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm (yes, these brothers’ Grimm).

Karl Hassenpflug, under Ludwig Wilhelm Wichmann’s mentorship, honed his skills in Munich and sculpted in Rome. Returning to Germany, he contributed to theaters, journeyed to England, and crafted notable works in Kassel.

In 1856, his second Roman sojourn birthed masterpieces like Cupid and Psyche. Appointed Professor in 1868, he adorned Kassel’s Art Academy and created medallions, pediment groups, and reliefs.

The Passport

Issued in Kassel on May 5th 1856 for 32-years old sculptor Karl Hassenpflug going to Vienna and Venice to Rome. Languages: German and French. Large format 40 x 55cm and well traveled.

Gustav Ernst von der Schulenburg-Priemern

Gustav Karl Ernst von der Schulenburg-Priemern (1814-1890), who became later Prussian envoy to the Saxon royal court in 1864, and personally handed over Prussia’s declaration of war to King John of Saxony on the evening of June 15, 1866, in the residential palace in Dresden. Besides being envoy in Waldeck and Saxony, he was also the 1st Legation Secretary, 1849-1852 in Paris.

A beautiful passport, which is located in the Kassel University Library, State Library and Murhard Library of the City of Kassel.

 

 

ℹ️ Passport History, Collectibles and Travel History explained by Expert, Author & Collector Tom Topol. ➡️ Ask me anything!
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