Artwork Page for Seal of Doge Michele Steno (obverse)

Details / Information for Seal of Doge Michele Steno (obverse)

Seal of Doge Michele Steno (obverse)

1400–1409

Italy, Venice

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Medium
repousé gold over a core of wax and resin
Measurements
Diameter: 4.8 cm (1 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1985.198.a
Public Domain
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Location
110A Italian Gothic
Print

Description

This opulent seal, an example of the splendor surrounding the ruler of Venice, was once attached to a charter issued in 1409. Seals were molded or embossed and attached to official documents as evidence of authenticity. This example is thought to be one of the finest Venetian seals to be preserved.
A circular gold seal features an inscription circling a low relief image. On our left, Doge Michele Steno stands facing right, wearing a crown and long cloak. On our right, a haloed Saint Mark stands facing forward in a mitre, holding a book. Both figures grasp a central banner staff topped with a cross. Latin text encircles the metallic gold disk, and small cylindrical projections extend from its top and bottom.

Seal of Doge Michele Steno (obverse)

1400–1409

Italy, Venice

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