Birth of the Virgin Described only in the apocryphal Gospels and the Golden Legend (13th century); the theme was widespread in western art where it was handed down beginning from the 13th century to the 17th century. The event when Anna, after the angel’s announcement gives birth to the little Mary, is set in an ordinary dwelling, often very carefully furnished, where many women are found: Joachim, when present, has a secondary position. Book of Anthems The name given to codexes that contain the choral chants and songs, either Catholic or Protestant, having specific names according to their liturgical function Boroni, Giuseppe (historical information from1787 to 1830) A goldsmith and the son of Master Bartolomeo, who had executed numerous works for the Vatican basilica. He had a workshop in Florence together with his brothers. In his vast production, one often finds the refined elegance typical of Roman neo-Classical silverworks. Brocade A damask fabric with large patterns, in silk, linen, hemp, sometimes with gold and silver threads, woven so as to show a characteristic effect in relief. Burin Implement made up of a small steel rod with a beaked point and a wooden handle; it produces a sharp cut while that of the graver, a simi-
lar tool, may have various shapes (round, flat, ruled). See engraving; embossing Burse (or case) A flat case to hold the corporal, formed by two rigid decorated squares; its colors vary according to the liturgical calendar. It was rested on the chalice. Candelabrum Large branched candlestick. Candlestick A support in wood, metal, ceramic or other materials, used to hold a single candle or, when it is placed on the altar, even several smallsized candles. Canvas It is one of the most used surfaces for oil painting; usually made of linen or hemp but sometimes also of cotton, jute, silk or other fibers; its typology varies by weight and weave according to the different eras, places and expressive needs. At first glued to a wooden panel, it was then stretched on stretcher bars to make the transportation of paintings easier; the latter procedure began to spread from the second half of the 15th century definitively substituting the one on wooden panel beginning from the 17th century. The term also refers to the pictorial work executed on canvas. Cape Small garment without sleeves that falls to the knees. It is worn by cardinals, bishops, abbots and other high dignitaries to whom it has been granted. The same term may english translation
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