GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English
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Virtu , n. [It. virtù virtue, excellence, from L. virtus. See Virtue.] A love of the fine arts; a taste for curiosities.J. Spence.1913 Webster
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.
1913 WebsterI had thoughts, in my chambers to place it in view,
To be shown to my friends as a piece of virtù.Goldsmith.1913 Webster