FESTIVAL DECORATION

[Celebrations]: Viva Ferdinando. [Tuscany] [c.1814].

This celebratory item, ostensibly a flattened tube of yellow paper, bears a large armorial of Ferdinand III, Grand Duke of Tuscany, with the motto 'Viva Ferdinando' (long live Ferdinand). This copy may have been lightly waxed inside which would inhibit burning and suggest use as lantern cover.

Ferdinand (1769-1824) became Grand Duke of Tuscany in 1790. He was forced out of the territory by the French in 1799, and by the Treaty of Aranjuez (1801) was made to renounce his title. He reclaimed the title in 1814 and held it until his death.

Details

One large single leaf, originally 35.9 x 30.7 cms., folded twice to form a flattened tube of 19.3 cms. width, with 2.7 cms. of paper overlapping where the glue has been applied. Yellow paper, with watermarks "G.B. Bonci", "Al Terrazzo", and armorial. Large woodcut armorial with text above, 'VIVA FERDINANDO'. Possibly waxed inside. Slight worming, very light soiling, some professional repair.

Nothing similar identified on OCLC.