Mauro Bergonzoli Bavaria 2016

Inspired by Giovanni Tiepolo’s Masterpiece, “Neptune Offering
Gifts to Venice”, this painting tells the story of Neptune
bringing his riches from the Oceans to Venice. The rise in
popularity of mythology and the world of the Gods was very
much in fashion during the Renaissance. Bones of Saints
stashed in endless holy tabernacles all over the Lion City of
merchants alone were never enough for Venice to keep luck
and prosperity on her side. She was ever dependent on
riches arriving from the seas. Since 1177, with the discreet
permission of Pope Alexander III, a special mythical tradition
began and is still practiced today. In a festive celebration
once a year, the Doge, with his majestical boats, would embark
out to open waters and throw his ring into the ocean,
symbolising the marriage of Venice and the Sea. This resulted
in good omens for successful business and unending
good fortune.
8 Neptune’s marriage to Venice – 2016 acrylic on canvas 80 x 120 cm
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