A large rectangular decorative headpiece consists of a central band of three oval compartments filled with intricate scrolling arabesque or foliage patterns. This central section is bordered above and below by two rows of repeating stylized floral fleurons, and on the sides by a single row of the same ornaments.

MOST SERENE

GRAND DUKE.

It often happens to those approaching unknown regions, while hurrying through places rugged with continuous mountains toward a city situated on their summit, that they imagine it to be at once visible and near, even though the multiple windings of the paths delay their hope to the point of weariness. For they see only the nearest peaks, but what is hidden by the obstruction of those same peaks—whether the raised parts of hills, or the deep parts of valleys, or the plains of fields—usually exceeds their conjectures, since by flattering themselves, they measure the intervals of places according to their desire. And the matter is no different for those who approach the true knowledge of things...