An engraving featuring three allegorical female figures against a background of the Venetian cityscape. The central figure, representing the Republic of Venice, sits enthroned wearing a corno ducale (doge's cap) and holding a cornucopia. To her left, a winged figure of Victory crowns her with a laurel wreath and stands beside a shield bearing the Lion of Saint Mark. To the right, another female figure in classical robes holds a crown and leans on a shield inscribed with "BYZAN" (Byzantium) This likely refers to Venice's historical rule over parts of the Byzantine Empire.. The background shows a detailed panorama of Venice, including the Campanile and the Doge's Palace.

TO THE MOST SERENE

REPUBLIC

OF THE VENETIANS

It is a matter of common knowledge that true love is that which no distance of lands and no span of time may sever; and which, if it is joined by sincere devotion, can neither be snatched away, nor diminished, nor in any way violated. What I feel even more deeply within my heart, may it be revealed, MOST SERENE PRINCE, original: "SERENISSIME PRINCEPS"; while "Princeps" usually means Prince, in the context of Venice it refers to the Doge, the elected head of the Republic. together with the MOST EXCELLENT—