Plaque located in Via delle Oche, between house numbers 35r and 37r.
Coat of arms: Adimari family
Paradiso – Canto XVI – vv 115 – 117
“L’OLTRACOTATA SCHIATTA CHE S’INDRACA
DIETRO A CHI FVGGE, ED A CHI MOSTRA IL DENTE
O VER LA BORSA, COM’AGNEL, SI PLACA.”
“The arrogant lineage (the Adimari) that rages and becomes as fierce as a dragon when pursuing those who flee, but becomes as quiet as a lamb before anyone who shows their teeth (force) or, alternatively, shows their purse (money).”
“This refers almost certainly to the Adimari family, notorious for their pride and for being among Dante’s political enemies who contributed to his exile. The term ‘oltra cotata’ specifically means ‘excessively presumptuous’ or ‘arrogant.’
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The Dragon: The lineage becomes a ‘dragon’ (a symbol of ferocity and cruelty) only when chasing those who run away—meaning those who are weaker or unable to defend themselves. It is a portrait of cowardice masked as aggression.
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The Lamb: The final critique is devastating and reveals their opportunistic nature. They immediately calm down like a ‘lamb’ (a symbol of docility) when they encounter an opponent who shows strength or a threatening attitude (‘shows their teeth’). Alternatively, they allow themselves to be bribed and appeased with money (‘shows their purse’).
In short, the Adimari family is accused of being arrogant toward the weak while remaining submissive and venal toward the strong or those who can corrupt them.”
