Venetian ceruse

English

The coronation portrait of Queen Elizabeth I of England, displaying her use of Venetian ceruse

Etymology

From its supposed origin in Venice.

Noun

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

• Venetian white, spirits of Saturn

Translations

Translations

• French: céruse de Venise
• Spanish: cerusa veneciana, cerusa de Venecia, espíritu de Saturno