Description
“Optics in Italian Paintings from the Middle Ages” series
This year’s microfiber celebrates the 69th anniversary of Urbano’s entry into eyeglass manufacturing (Safilo, Calalzo di C., October 18, 1946).
A majolica tile dated 1510 represents the oldest image of eyeglasses on a tile.
It is visible in the Chapel of the Annunciation in the Church of San Sebastiano in Venice and is part of a floor laid by the Lando family in 1530. The origin of the tile is uncertain as the earthenware is of Marche origin but the surface decoration could be of Venetian origin.
In the same floor, there is another tile depicting similar eyeglasses, both placed on a book, a testament to the cultural value of the objects depicted. The detail of the eyeglass-tightening ribbons at the bottom of the rings is interesting.
