Florence

Taken from an oil painting by Bernarndo Bellotto, “Florence” shows the busy waterways of Florence. The bridge in the background is of particular interest. Built in ancient times, it crosses the widest part of the Arno River. It has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries and it is the only bridge in Florence to escape being destroyed in World War II. Somewhere between 1565 and 1800, additional levels were added to the bridge to handle merchants who had begun to set up shop on the busy overpass. These included goldsmiths and artisans as well as blacksmiths and butchers. A huge flood in 1966 wiped out the shops, but the bridge remained – a testament to its builders. This lovely tapestry captures a time when the bridge was a vital part of Florence’s commerce, not only as a gateway to the city but also as a place where merchants earned their livelihood. It is lined on the back and has a tunnel for easy hanging.