Home > Animals > Birds > Owls > Striped Owl
Siena, Italy - Contrada - Civetta (Owl)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Siena, Italy - Contrada - Civetta (Owl)
Standard bearer of the Contrada of Civetta (Owl), Siena, Italy. At birth you become a member of one of the 17 Contrade (Districts) and your life revolves around your Contrada. Each contrada is named after an animal or symbol with individual (and complicated!) heraldic and semi-mythological associations and devices. The contrade race against each other in the famous horse race the Palio around the tight (and dangerous) streets of the city. Date: circa 1910
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14352941
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Bearer Civetta Contrada Contrade Districts Elaborate Hose Loyalty Sep15 Siena Standard Striped Stripey Symbol Symbology
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Birds
> Owls
> Striped Owl
> Animals
> Farm
> Horses
> Related Images
> Animals
> Mammals
> Horse
> Related Images
> Europe
> Italy
> Tuscany
> Siena
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative photograph, the standard bearer of the Contrada of Civetta (Owl) proudly displays the intricately designed flag of his district in the historic city of Siena, Italy. Founded in the Middle Ages, the Contrade (districts) of Siena are an integral part of the city's rich cultural heritage. Each citizen is born into one of the seventeen Contrade, and their life revolves around the traditions and rituals of their district. The name of each Contrada is associated with an animal or symbol, and the heraldry and semi-mythological devices of each are elaborate and complicated. The Contrada of Civetta, represented by the wise and mysterious owl, is no exception. The owl is a symbol of wisdom, vigilance, and the ability to see in the dark, making it an apt representation for the members of this district. The standard bearer wears the traditional costume of his Contrada, adorned with the distinctive stripes and patterns of the Civetta. The elaborate flag, with its intricate designs and the image of the owl, is a source of great pride for the members of the Contrada. The standard bearer carries the flag with dignity and pride, embodying the spirit of loyalty and devotion to his district. The Contrada system is perhaps best known for the famous horse race, the Palio, which takes place twice a year. The Palio is a thrilling and dangerous event, with riders racing around the tight streets of Siena on horseback, representing their respective Contrade. The Palio is a test of skill, courage, and tradition, and the victory of one Contrada is a cause for great celebration among its members. This photograph, taken circa 1910, captures a moment in time, preserving the rich history and traditions of the Contrade of Siena and the spirit of the Civetta and its members.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.