Graceful Simplicity: Handcolored Print of a Zocolette Nun, Plate 79, 1862

Graceful Simplicity: Handcolored Print of a Zocolette Nun, Plate 79, 1862

This charming hand-colored lithograph, Graceful Simplicity, is Plate 79 from the 1862 second edition of Album ou Collection Complète, et Historique des Costumes de la Cour de Rome. Illustrated by G. Perugini, it captures the serene elegance of a Zocolette nun, a member of an Italian religious order known for their modesty and service to the poor.

The Zocolette is depicted in a simple yet dignified habit consisting of a white veil and apron over a dark brown robe, reflecting the humility and simplicity central to the order's values. Her gentle expression and modest pose exude a quiet grace that resonates with the order's mission to provide care and spiritual guidance to the less fortunate.

Historically, Zocolette nuns were active in Italian cities, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries. Their work in education and assistance to the marginalized left a lasting impact, and their humble attire symbolized their detachment from worldly wealth. While the Zocolette order has faded from prominence, their legacy of service endures in modern Catholic charitable efforts.

This beautifully detailed print is a rare glimpse into the life and traditions of a little-known religious community, making it a fascinating addition for collectors of antique prints, religious art, or historical costumes.

Introduction Text Translation:

A powerful interest is attached to the name of Rome, an interest even greater in the name of Christ. Rome, through its genius, the vast intelligence of its warriors, orators, and legislators, prepared the cradle where Catholicism was born, grew, developed, and established itself. The history of Catholicism is the history of this great and glorious city among all others.

Virgil said in a truly prophetic verse: “To rule peoples, Roman, remember.” This prophecy received the most glorious, complete developments: all conspired for the glory of the eternal city, its history, its arts, monuments, and the religion from which everything starts and to which everything returns. Yet, no other city in the universe contains such a collection: from the monuments of Augustus' time to those of Sixtus V and Leo XII; from pagan temples to saints’ tombs and martyrs, all illustrate daily the majesty of Catholicism in its splendor.

It was natural to offer the public the tableau of the splendid costumes of the Pontiffs and great dignitaries, as well as those of the humble garments of religious congregations. This is what we retrace in this Album. Amid the religious costumes, we have also included military corps contributing to the harmony of ceremonies. These figures, drawn by the skilled artist G. Perugini, are accompanied by explanatory texts derived from the works of the learned Father Hélyot.

Table of Costumes in English (selected for relevance):

- The Pope in Grand Ceremony

- Cardinal in Choir Attire

- Bishop in Pontifical Costume

- Franciscan

- Capuchin Friar

- Jesuit

- Reformed Redemptorist

- Sister of Redemption (Plate 76)

- Religious Sister of Perpetual Adoration (Plate 77)

- Benedictine (Plate 78)

- Zocolette (Plate 79)

This rare print offers an intimate glimpse into the humble yet profound life of the Zocolette order, providing collectors with a meaningful connection to the spiritual and artistic heritage of 19th-century Rome.