90 - Gabriele D'Annunzio, Occupation of Fiume, 1919–1920. Cup “SI SPIRITUS PRO NOBIS QUIS CONTRA NOS?”, silver metal Height 25 cm; width 18 cm

Gabriele D'Annunzio, Occupation of Fiume, 1919–1920. Cup “SI SPIRITUS PRO NOBIS QUIS CONTRA NOS?”, silver metal Height 25 cm; width 18 cm Belonging to a Legionnaire from Fiume, the cup—with its delicate floral motifs in relief in the late Art Nouveau style—echoes, through the rigid geometries of its handles, the fascinating aesthetic of the Vienna Secession. It is most likely a trophy of Habsburg imperial production that was still in use during the legendary occupation by D’Annunzio’s irregular troops. It features a delicate and fine engraving at the base bearing D’Annunzio’s famous motto, “SI SPIRITUS PRO NOBIS QUIS CONTRA NOS?” (SPIRIT FOR US, WHO AGAINST US?), and is embellished with an equally fine engraving in the center depicting the seven stars of the Big Dipper. In D’Annunzio’s symbolism, these stars represent the seven unredeemed cities that were to be annexed to Italy.