Pope Benedict XIV (Prospero Lambertini, 1675–1758)

Pierre Hubert Subleyras

Created:
Movement:
1746
Rococo
key Notes:
Pontifical Portraiture, Baroque Realism
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Dimensions:
25 1/4 x 19 1/4 in. (64.1 x 48.9 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Pope Benedict XIV (Prospero Lambertini, 1675–1758)" is a portrait painted by Pierre Hubert Subleyras in 1746. The painting depicts Pope Benedict XIV, who was known for his intellectual pursuits and efforts to reform the Catholic Church. Subleyras, a French painter active in Italy, was recognized for his ability to capture the likeness and character of his subjects. This work exemplifies the Rococo style, characterized by its elegance and attention to detail. The portrait reflects the pope's dignified demeanor and the opulence of the papal office during the 18th century. The painting is notable for its use of light and shadow, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the figure. It is currently housed in the collection of the Museo di Roma. Further details about the painting's provenance or exhibition history are not widely documented.

Description of the work:

The painting "Pope Benedict XIV (Prospero Lambertini, 1675–1758)" by Pierre Hubert Subleyras, created in 1746, is an oil on canvas work that presents a formal portrait of the pope. The composition features Benedict XIV seated in a grand chair, adorned in papal vestments that include a white cassock and a red mozzetta. The pope's expression is serene and contemplative, conveying a sense of authority and wisdom. The background is a rich, dark tone that enhances the luminosity of the figure, while the use of light highlights the intricate details of the papal attire. Subleyras employs a realistic style, capturing the textures of the fabrics and the softness of the pope's skin. The painting is characterized by its balanced composition and the careful rendering of facial features, which reflect the artist's skill in portraiture. The overall effect is one of dignity and reverence, befitting the subject's status within the Catholic Church.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Pope Benedict XIV (Prospero Lambertini, 1675–1758)