Other Prints · 19th century
€ 110
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
The print is in good condition, with vivid hand-coloring, minimal discoloration, slight edge wear but no visible major tears or stains. Perfect for display purposes. Please study the image carefully.
Cameriere Segreto: Handcolored Lithograph of the Secret Chamberlain, Plate 19, 1862
This elegant handcolored lithograph, Cameriere Segreto (Secret Chamberlain), is Plate 19 from the 1862 second edition of Album ou Collection Complète, et Historique des Costumes de la Cour de Rome by G. Perugini. The print vividly illustrates the attire of the Secret Chamberlain, a trusted papal official in the Vatican hierarchy.
The figure is dressed in a stately red robe, adorned with a fur-lined white cape that drapes across his shoulders, symbolizing his esteemed position. His composed expression and confident pose reflect the gravitas of his role, which historically included assisting the Pope in private and ceremonial duties. The Secret Chamberlain was often responsible for confidential matters and played a pivotal role in the organization of the papal court.
While this position in its traditional form ceased to exist after reforms of the 20th century, its legacy remains a testament to the intricate and hierarchical structure of the Vatican. This print, with its delicate detailing and vibrant colors, captures the elegance and solemnity of a bygone era in Church history.
This lithograph is a striking representation of 19th-century ecclesiastical artistry, offering collectors a rare glimpse into the ceremonial traditions of the Vatican. It is ideal for enthusiasts of religious history, antique prints, and historical costumes.
Introduction Text Translation:
A powerful interest is attached to the name of Rome, an interest even greater in the name of Christ. Rome, through its genius, the vast intelligence of its warriors, orators, and legislators, prepared the cradle where Catholicism was born, grew, developed, and established itself. The history of Catholicism is the history of this great and glorious city among all others.
Virgil said in a truly prophetic verse: “To rule peoples, Roman, remember.” This prophecy received the most glorious, complete developments: all conspired for the glory of the eternal city—its history, its arts, monuments, and the religion from which everything starts and to which everything returns. Yet, no other city in the universe contains such a collection: from the monuments of Augustus' time to those of Sixtus V and Leo XII; from pagan temples to saints’ tombs and martyrs, all illustrate daily the majesty of Catholicism in its splendor.
It was natural to offer the public the tableau of the splendid costumes of the Pontiffs and great dignitaries, as well as those of the humble garments of religious congregations. This is what we retrace in this Album. Amid the religious costumes, we have also included military corps contributing to the harmony of ceremonies. These figures, drawn by the skilled artist G. Perugini, are accompanied by explanatory texts derived from the works of the learned Father Hélyot.
Table of Costumes in English (selected for relevance):
- The Pope in Grand Ceremony
- Cardinal in Choir Attire
- Bishop in Pontifical Costume
- Franciscan
- Capuchin Friar
- Jesuit
- Reformed Redemptorist
- Sister of Redemption (Plate 76)
- Religious Sister of Perpetual Adoration (Plate 77)
- Benedictine (Plate 78)
- Zocolette (Plate 79)
- Lateran Canoness (Plate 80)
- Senator and Pages (Plate 25)
- Secret Chamberlain (Cameriere Segreto, Plate 19)
- Capitoline Estafier (Plate 31)
- Noble Guard (Plate 32)
- Garde Civique Officer (Plate 33)
- Officer of the Line (Plate 34)
- Senate Guard (Plate 35)
- Swiss Guard Sergeant (Plate 40)
- Swiss Guard Piper (Plate 41)
- Swiss Guard in Cuirass (Plate 42)
- Dean of Palfreniers (Plate 94)
This piece is an exquisite representation of historical Vatican ceremonial dress, showcasing the intricate traditions and artistry of the 19th century. It is a rare collectible that will enhance any collection of religious or historical art.
