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.
Ceremonial Prestige: Handcolored Print of a Massier, Plate 23, 1862
This captivating handcolored lithograph, Ceremonial Prestige, is Plate 23 from the 1862 second edition of Album ou Collection Complète, et Historique des Costumes de la Cour de Rome, illustrated by G. Perugini. It depicts a Massier (Mazziere), an official of the Papal Court, distinguished by his ceremonial role in carrying the staff of office—a symbol of authority and order.
The Massier is elegantly dressed in a formal black uniform, enhanced by a light blue ceremonial cape draped over his shoulders. He holds the ceremonial mace, adorned with gold accents, symbolizing his duty to maintain protocol and represent the dignity of the Papal Court. His poised stance conveys both responsibility and pride, reflecting the ceremonial importance of his position.
Historically, Massiers played a vital role in formal ecclesiastical ceremonies, acting as intermediaries and organizers for the pope and high-ranking officials. Their distinctive attire and staff of office were not just practical but highly symbolic, embodying the traditions of the Papal States.
This lithograph vividly captures the elegance and historical significance of this ceremonial role, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and traditions of the 19th-century Vatican. Its vibrant colors and meticulous details make it an extraordinary piece for collectors of antique prints and religious art.
**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 (Plate 26)
- Caudataire (Plate 27)
- Massier (Plate 23)
- Dean of Palfreniers (Plate 94)
This print is a stunning representation of Papal ceremonial tradition, showcasing the artistry and precision of 19th-century ecclesiastical attire. A perfect addition to any collection of historical prints or religious artwork.
