8. Engraving representing "Constantin Brâncoveanu and his sons", by Alessandro dalla Via, Venic, 1718, from the collection of literary critic Șerban Cioculescu, rare collectible piece

Engraving representing the portraits of ruler Constantin Brâncoveanu and his four decapitated sons at Constantinople on August 15, 1714 illustrated the most important work which offers a vast description of the martyrdom of the ruler, "Istoria delle moderne rivoluzioni della Valachia", published by Anton-Maria del Chiaro in Venice, in 1718. The author was an Italian humanist, born in Florence between 1660 and 1680, who served Brâncoveanu as his personal secretary and who was closely acquainted with the circumstances of the sultan's banishment. His work was a great success at the time and has remained in posterity as the main source for the tragic ending of the ruler and the male part of his family. The work is created by the Italian painter and engraver Alessandro dalla Via and comprises a large portrait of the ruler Constantin Brâncoveanu in ceremonial clothing, flanked by portraits of the four sons beheaded with their father: Constantin, Stephen, Radu and Matei. At the base of the work is the coat of arms of the Romanian Country in a central medallion. You can read the inscription: "Costantino Bassaraba Brancovani Principe Di Valachia Decollato In Constantinopole MDCCXIV". The item is in a very good state of preservation.

Dimensions

width 16 cm, height 22 cm

Description

copper engraving

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