With the permanent lost of the Papal States in 1870, he declared himself a Prisoner of the Vatican.  He also declared the dogma of papal infallibility the same year. His reign of 32 years was the longest of the period. Convoked the First Vatican Council. Pius IX was declared blessed in by (future) Pope St. John Paul II in 1990.
 
DS - Document Signed; one page with integral address panel and red wax seal. Apostolic Blessing bestowed on the Order of Sisters of the Visitation, Naples, issued the second year of his reign (1847).  Usual folds but, overall, very good to fine. Accompanied by original mailer with an excellent rouge wax impression of the papal seal (uncommon to acquire both document and mailer).