Procession (fragment) 

Gaspare Diziani created this fragment of a ‘Procession’ using pen and brown ink with grey wash. The sketch gives the impression of Italian pageantry in the 18th century. Venice, where Diziani spent most of his life, was known for its elaborate public ceremonies. Religious festivals, state visits, and Carnival celebrations provided opportunities for displays of wealth and power. Processions like the one depicted in the drawing reinforced the social hierarchy, with different groups parading in order of importance. The artist highlights the performative nature of these rituals through the design and composition. Diziani also made designs for theatrical sets, and his sketches give the impression of a stage set. In Venice, the institutions of the church and state were closely intertwined, and art was often used to promote their shared interests. By studying period accounts, costume books, and records of civic events, we can begin to understand the cultural context in which Diziani created this drawing and its significance in Venetian society.