Virtu (?; 277), n. [It. virtù virtue, excellence, from L. virtus. See Virtue.] A love of the fine arts; a taste for curiosities. J. Spence.
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An article of virtu, or a piece of virtu, , an object of art or antiquity; a curiosity, such as those found in museums or private collections.
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I had thoughts, in my chambers to place it in view,
To be shown to my friends as a piece of virtù. Goldsmith.
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