Baldassare

Baldassare is the Italian form of Balthazar, itself derived through Greek and Latin from the Babylonian name Bel-shar-usur, meaning roughly "Baal protect the king," combining the name of the Babylonian deity Baal with words for king and protection. The name became widely used in Christian Europe through its legendary association with one of the Biblical Magi, traditionally identified as the king who brought myrrh to the infant Jesus. Notable bearers include the Italian Renaissance artist Baldassare Peruzzi and the diplomat and writer Baldassare Castiglione, author of The Book of the Courtier. Related forms include Balthazar in English and French, Balthasar in German, and Baltazar in Spanish and Portuguese.