Amidst the vibrant cultural tapestry of Venice, we find the Riccardo Selvatico Bust. This bronze effigy, crafted by P. Canonica, stands as a testament to a man who shaped the very soul of Venice. Riccardo Selvatico, playwright, poet, politician, and visionary, left an indelible mark on this city. The bust, erected in 1903, bears an inscription that speaks volumes about Selvatico’s love for his city: “A Riccardo Selvatico la sua città 1903. No che a sto mondo, no città più bela” (“To Riccardo Selvatico, his city 1903. No, in this world, there is no more beautiful city”).
Riccardo Selvatico, born in Venice in 1849, wore many hats. He was a playwright whose comedies, often written in the Venetian dialect, captured the essence of the city’s vibrant populace. Works like “La bozeta de l’ogio” and “I recini da festa” resonated deeply with Venetians, portraying their everyday lives and struggles. Beyond the stage, Selvatico served as Venice’s mayor from 1890 to 1895. His administration, known for its progressive policies, focused on improving the lives of ordinary Venetians. He reduced taxes and transportation costs, and championed the construction of affordable housing.
But perhaps Selvatico’s most enduring legacy is the Venice Biennale. He conceived this international art exhibition while enjoying the intellectual fervor of Caffè Florian in Piazza San Marco. Inspired by the Munich Secession, Selvatico envisioned a grand showcase of art that would celebrate Italian culture and commemorate the 25th wedding anniversary of King Umberto and Margherita of Savoy. The first Biennale, inaugurated in 1895 at the Giardini Pubblici, was a resounding success. Over 200,000 visitors marveled at the art, solidifying Venice’s position as a global cultural hub. Even figures like Gabriele D’Annunzio praised the event. Interestingly, the first Biennale also sparked controversy. Giacomo Grosso’s painting, “Supremo convegno,” depicting nude female figures around a bier, drew the ire of the Patriarch of Venice, the future Pope Pius X. Selvatico, after consulting a commission of literary figures, allowed the painting to be exhibited in a separate room, where it ironically won acclaim as the best piece.
Selvatico’s impact extended beyond the mayor’s office. He served as a member of parliament, advocating for legislation to protect the Venetian Lagoon. His dedication to Venice never wavered, right up until his sudden death in 1901 following a heated city council meeting. As you stand before the Riccardo Selvatico Bust, take a moment to appreciate the man who not only captured the spirit of Venice in his art but also shaped its future. His legacy lives on, woven into the fabric of this extraordinary city.