Costumes And Figures From Venice And The Roman Court: Engravings By Teodoro Viero, 18th Century

An elegant set of 8 18th-century copper engravings depicting traditional figures and costumes of the Republic of Venice, as well as high-ranking dignitaries of the Court of Rome.
Each print features bilingual captions (in Italian and French), typical of the luxury publications intended for the great travelers of the Grand Tour in the late 18th century. This set is part of the famous monumental series “Raccolta di stampe che rappresentano figure ed abiti di varie nazioni” published in Venice between 1783 and 1791. Among the pieces in this series are, notably:

• The Gondolier, or Venetian Boatman (Il Gondoliere)
• The Venetian Woman in a Zendale (La Donna Veneziana in cendale)
• The Venetian Nobleman (Il Nobile Veneziano)
• The Doge of Venice in ceremonial attire (Il Doge di Venezia)
• The Roman Pontiff (Il Pontifice Romano)
• Cardinal or Prince of the Holy Church (Cardinale o Principe di Santa Chiesa)

Artist / Publisher: Teodoro Viero (1740–1819), an Italian miniaturist and engraver based in Venice, renowned for the finesse of his chisel work and etchings.
Condition & Presentation:
The prints are in good overall condition on period laid paper (with slight foxing and normal sun fading that do not detract from the delicacy of the line work). The 8 engravings are presented in a contemporary frame with a sleek silver and gold patina and a passe-partout, which adds a modern and luminous touch, making them easy to incorporate into a contemporary or classic interior.

• Period: 18th century (circa 1783–1790)
• Style: Classical / Venetian
• Technique: Etching and burin engraving on period paper
• Dimensions: with frame 36 x 26 cm