Lunch offered by Benito Mussolini to Hermann Goering. Rome, Palazzo del Quirinale, 7 November 1933.

Lunch offered by Benito Mussolini to Hermann Goering. Rome, Palazzo del Quirinale, 7 November 1933.

160x105 mm. Typographic menu on pre-printed card with royal coat of arms in gold at the top.

The only other known example, previously in the collection of Livio Cerini of Castagnate and now preserved at Academia Barilla, is published in A World of Menus, Rome, Garum, Library and Museum of Cooking, 2024, p. 64, n.43. Given its significance and excessive rarity, the work is sold with Blockchain Secured and BuyBack included in the price.

And here is what Grok thinks about this meeting:

The meeting between Benito Mussolini and Hermann Göring in Rome took place in November 1933 during Göring's official visit to Italy. This meeting fits into the context of strengthening relations between fascist Italy and Nazi Germany, shortly after Adolf Hitler's rise to power in January of the same year.

Historical Context

In 1933, Mussolini had been in power in Italy for over a decade, and Italian fascism was seen as a model by many authoritarian movements in Europe, including Nazism. Göring, one of Hitler's main collaborators and a prominent figure in the National Socialist Party, was sent to Italy to strengthen ties between the two regimes and discuss political and strategic issues. Germany was seeking allies to consolidate its position in Europe, while Mussolini viewed Nazi Germany as a potential partner to counter the influence of France and the United Kingdom.

The Meeting

The meeting was held in Rome, where the Duce welcomed the guest with full honours. The discussions centred on several topics:

1. Political Cooperation: Mussolini and Göring discussed the possibility of closer collaboration between the two regimes, although Mussolini remained cautious towards Germany, which he considered a potential ally but not yet fully trustworthy.
2. The Austrian Question: One of the main points was the situation in Austria. The Duce was protective of Austrian independence, viewing it as a buffer zone between Italy and Germany. The German guest, on the other hand, represented Nazi interests, which aimed at the Anschluss (the annexation of Austria to Germany), a goal that created tensions with Italy.
3. Common Foreign Policy: There was discussion of a possible convergence against Western democracies and how the two regimes could coordinate to expand their influence in Europe.

The German minister, known for his charisma and theatricality, sought to impress the Duce with the strength and determination of the new Nazi regime. Mussolini, for his part, presented himself as the more experienced leader, trying to maintain a position of superiority in the discussions.

Outcomes

The meeting did not lead to immediate concrete commitments, but it was an important step towards rapprochement between Italy and Germany. The ideological and strategic differences, particularly regarding Austria, remained an obstacle, yet the two leaders laid the groundwork for a future alliance. This meeting set the stage for the Pact of Steel in 1939 and the Rome-Berlin Axis.

Atmosphere and Curiosities

The meeting was characterised by a certain ceremonial pomp, with parades and official receptions. The German minister, a lover of luxury, appreciated the Italian hospitality, while the Duce sought to showcase the strength of the fascist regime through the impeccable organisation of events. However, Mussolini was sceptical about the stability of the Nazi regime, considering it still young and unpredictable.

In summary, the 1933 meeting was a key moment to test the waters of a possible alliance but also reflected the cautious and conflicting ambitions of the two regimes.

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