Venetian ceruse

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English[edit]

English Wikipedia has an article on:
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The coronation portrait of Queen Elizabeth I of England, displaying her use of Venetian ceruse

Etymology[edit]

From its supposed origin in Venice.

Noun[edit]

Venetian ceruse (uncountable)

  1. (chiefly historical) A form of ceruse variously claimed to be pure white lead, equal parts white lead and barium sulfate, or white lead mixed with water and vinegar, used to whiten skin and dry sores before it was recognized to cause lead poisoning.

Synonyms[edit]

Translations[edit]