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Notes
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The Latin inscription identifies this woman as Costanza de‘ Medici, the wife of an important Florentine citizen of the Caetani family. The portrait was clearly made to celebrate their marriage: she holds a sprig of orange blossom, which was associated with chastity and traditionally worn by brides and wives. The jewellery on the ledge may have been part of the ’counter-dowry‘, the gifts given by the groom. There is a ruby necklace finished off with three pearls, symbols of purity, and three rings on a bolster, which also refer to marriage. The gold pins and the needle are an expression of her domestic skills. Records show that Costanza de’ Medici was born in about 1469 and was married by 1489. The picture was probably made around this time.
Title
Costanza Caetani
Date
probably about 1480-90
Medium
Tempera and oil on wood
Measurements
H 57.2 x W 37.5 cm
Accession number
NG2490
Acquisition method
Salting Bequest, 1910
Work type
Painting
