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Large 19th C Italian Venetian Oil Painting w/ Murano Beads & St. Mark’s Lion
About the Item
A Venetian Work of Art: Mid-19th Century Hand-Painted Artwork with Murano Glass Beads
This extraordinary piece of art, created in Venice, Italy, during the mid-19th century, is both visually captivating and rich in history.
Iconic Venetian Imagery: The artwork depicts a sailing ship outfitted with both traditional sails and new steam technology, symbolizing a pivotal moment in maritime history. Set in the Port of Venice, a gondola glides gracefully in the foreground, with a glimpse of St. Mark's Square anchoring the scene on the left (see image #4).
Designed to promote La Società Operaia Veneziana (The Venetian Workers' Society), this oil painting is a rare blend of craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
Intricate Detailing: The painting is meticulously hand-painted on a wood board and overlaid with tiny Venetian glass beads, crafted in Murano—renowned for its exquisite glasswork.
These beads add a mesmerizing texture and a unique play of light to the artwork (see images).
Historical Significance: The Venetian Workers' Society was one of Northern Italy's prominent "friendly societies" in the 19th century.
These organizations provided mutual aid, education, and cultural enrichment to their members, predating modern trade unions.
Inscription: The inscription at the bottom center reads "La Società Operaia Veneziana Offre" (The Venetian Workers' Society Offers), accompanied by the Lion of St. Mark—Venice's iconic symbol.
Elegant Frame: The artwork is housed in a parcel-gilt inner frame with a maple outer frame, enhancing its timeless appeal.
Dimensions: Frame: 33" wide x 27" high x 1" deep.
Condition: Excellent. The painting and frame have been well-preserved, maintaining their original beauty.
Price: $3,400
About Murano Glass: Murano, a small island near Venice, has been synonymous with luxury glassmaking since the 13th century. Renowned for its innovations and artistic excellence, Murano glass has a legacy of crafting cristallo—a near-transparent glass considered the finest in the world during the Renaissance.
About the Venetian Workers' Society: The Società Operaia Veneziana was part of a network of "friendly societies" that supported workers through education, cultural events, and mutual aid.
These cooperatives, which operated businesses like bakeries and factories, were essential precursor to modern labor unions and played a crucial role in 19th-century Italian society.
This unique and historically significant artwork would make a splendid addition to any collection, embodying the elegance of Venetian craftsmanship and the spirit of its rich cultural history.
- Dimensions:Height: 27 in (68.58 cm)Width: 33 in (83.82 cm)Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Circa 1860
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Katonah, NY
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU866533705692
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