Sir Geoffrey Francis Fisher (1887–1972) was Archbishop of Canterbury from 1945 to 1961; Frederick Temple (1821–1902) was archbishop from 1896 until his death. Two items: Vintage matte-finish 10.5 x 13.5 Bachrach photo of Sir Geoffrey Francis Fisher, affixed to an 11.5 x 16.5 mat, signed in fountain pen at the bottom of mat, "Geoffrey Cantuar." Also signed in fountain pen against his black clothing; and an ALS signed "F. Cantaur" from Frederick Temple, one page, 4.5 x 7, on Lambeth Palace letterhead, July 3, 1897. The archbishop writes to the headmaster at Sherborne School. In full: "How long are your Summer Holidays? And how long are your Holidays in the whole year?" In overall very good condition, with two heavier overlapping blocks of toning covering the mat and the signature (heavy contrast to signature on the photo); the letter shows scattered creasing, a horizontal fold, and scattered soiling and staining. As is custom following his appointment, the Archbishop of Canterbury signs with his Christian name and then 'Cantuar'-the Latin abbreviation of Canterbury. Their official residence in London is Lambeth Palace. RRAuction COA.
