A fascinating, historically significant commercial shipping invoice dated May 15, 1914, issued just months before the outbreak of World War I. This document represents the prominent maritime trade link between Italy and the late Ottoman Empire.
Historical Details & Content: The elegant bi-color printed letterhead belongs to the "Società Italiana di Servizi Marittimi" (Agenzia Generale per il Levante in Costantinopoli). Issued to Signor Antonio Farma, the handwritten Italian text details specific port, customs, and logistical expenses in Istanbul. Notably, the itemized list includes a fee for a "Dragomano" (Official Dragoman / Court Interpreter), reflecting the cosmopolitan administrative life of the Levant.
Key Features:
Ottoman Fiscal Stamp: Features a beautiful green Ottoman fiscal stamp with a clear imperial Tughra on the bottom right, canceled with a handwritten date (C'poli li 15/5/1914) and an elegant corporate wet signature.
Maritime & Levant Heritage: Excellent typography displaying the company's capital (Capitale Sociale Lire 10.000.000).