• Second half of the 17th c.
• oil on canvas

Stjepan Gradic, an exceptionally versatile man, was born in Dubrovnik in 1613 into a prominent patrician family. He was a theologian who distinguished himself as a scientist, man of letters, translator, philosopher, historian, and a diplomat. His legacy consists of some twenty manuscripts and printed works and treatises. In 1653, he was appointed the official representative of the Dubrovnik Republic in Vatican. Soon afterwards, he became an adviser of the Holy See, then the curator of the Vatican library, and in 1682 its head. As a distinguished scientist, Gradic was active in mathematics, meteorology and astronomy and also conducted extensive research work in the field of optics. He was a member of the Academy that was founded by the former Swedish Queen Christina. In Dubrovnik he was called the "father of the homeland" because following the great earthquake of 1667 he sent to his native town substantial help in form of money, builders and masters from Italy. In addition, he acted as a mediator in a dispute with Turkey regarding payment of tribute. He died in Rome in 1683.

Copyright MDC & Carnet
design NOVENA, Zagreb