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1 of 253523 objects
The relics of the Blessed Pietro Orseolo, Doge of Venice c. 1732-52
Pen and bistre | 39.9 x 24.5 cm (sheet of paper) | RCIN 907680

Antonio Visentini (Venice 1688- Venice 1782)
The relics of the Blessed Pietro Orseolo, Doge of Venice c. 1732-52
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A drawing of an ornate casket containing some of the bones of the Blessed Pietro Orseolo. Above it sits his corno ducale, and above that is the dove of the Holy Spirit within a monstrance. Below the casket the winged Lion of St Mark sits above a cartouche containing a lengthy Italian inscription.
The engraving by Visentini after this drawing is in p. 35 of the volume. It is identical, except for small differences in the inscription. The design was made to celebrate the transfer to St Mark's of the relics of the Blessed Pietro Orseolo, Doge of Venice, who died in 997, and was beatified by Clement XII in 1731. The translation of his relics to St Mark's took place in January 1732. The magnificent reliquary, presented by Louis XV, is still preserved in the treasury of St Mark's. The engraving is dedicated to Marcantonio Giustiniani, Procurator of St Marks, who was responsible for the ceremonies surrounding the translation.Provenance
Probably acquired in 1762 by George III from the collection of Joseph Smith, British Consul in Venice
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Medium and techniques
Pen and bistre
Measurements
39.9 x 24.5 cm (sheet of paper)