The wealth of Venetians. Dynamics of consumption and material well-being in early modern Venice 1650-1800

Historians have traditionally viewed the last two centuries of the early modern period as a crisis era for Italian states. However, recent studies have revised this view, revealing that during this period, Italy’s economy displayed significant vitality and dynamism despite losing its continental leadership. Yet, this revisionist perspective has not fully permeated the historiography of consumption and material culture. Through meticulous research based on a broad array of empirical evidence, primarily unpublished documents housed at the Venetian State Archive, this study challenges the traditional narrative of material decline. By analyzing household budgets, our study demonstrates that Venetian consumption was not stagnant or in decline; rather, it was characterized by a high degree of flexibility, highlighting a vibrant and adaptable material culture.