of these arts, and a proof to all Italy of the high mind and great goodness of your most illustrious Excellency, whom may Grod long preserve in happiness, for the advantage of your people and for the good of art.”
To this the Duke replied as follows:—
“Reverend and well-beloved,—The promptitude which the Academy has shown, and is showing, in its preparations to honour the memory of Michelagnolo Buonarroti, who has passed from this life to a better, has consoled us much for the loss of so extraordinary a man; and not only will we do as you request, but will endeavour to have his remains brought to Florence, as, according to what we hear, was his own desire. All this we write to the Academy to encourage the members in their purpose of honouring the talents of that great man in the best manner possible; and so may God keep you in joy.”
Of the letter, or memorial, mentioned above, as addressed by the Academy to the Duke, the following are the words:—
“Most Illustrious, &c. —The Academy and the Men belonging to the Society of the Arts of Design, established under the grace and favour of your Most Illustrious Excellency, having heard with what care and zeal you have caused the body of Michelagnolo Buonarroti to be claimed by your ambassador in Rome, have assembled and unanimously resolved to celebrate his obsequies in the best manner possible to them. Knowing therefore that your Excellency was honoured by Michelagnolo as much as he was favoured by your Excellency, they pray you of your infinite goodness and liberality to be pleased to permit, first, that the solemnities shall be held in the Church of San Lorenzo, which was built by your ancestors, wherein are so many fine works, both in architecture and sculpture, by his hand, and near which it is your purpose to erect an abode which, for the Academy and Company of Design, shall be as it were an abiding seat of study, whether in architecture, painting, or sculpture.
“Secondly, we beg that you will commit to Messer Benedetto Varchi the charge, not only of composing the funeral oration, but also of pronouncing it with his own lips, as at our entreaty he has freely promised to do, provided your
