Italian school (XVIII) - Papa Benedetto XIV (al secolo...

Pope Benedict XIV (born Prospero Lorenzo Lambertini) 18th-century painting Oil on canvas - 1740/1750 Dimensions: 82 x 70.5 cm with frame Canvas: 66 x 57 cm Description of the work The painting shows the pontiff portrayed in half-length, three-quarter view, as he directs an intense and piercing gaze directly at the viewer. The facial features highlight the witty expression and the strong personality that historically characterized Benedict XIV. • Attire: The pope wears solemn liturgical garments: the white cassock with cuffs finished in precious lace and the papal stole richly embroidered in gold with geometric and floral motifs. On the shoulders he wears the mozzetta in red velvet bordered with fur, while on the head he wears the typical camauro (the winter headpiece in red velvet bordered with ermine). • Gestures: The right hand is partially raised in the foreground and clearly displays the fisherman's ring on the ring finger. The positioning of the fingers hints at a benedictive or allocution gesture. • Style and composition: The work adopts the official portrait formula codified by the French painter Pierre Subleyras. The use of chiaroscuro contrasts makes the figure emerge from a dark, neutral background, focusing attention on the pontiff’s facial expression and the tactile rendering of the fabrics and the gilded embroidery. Historical period and dating The work can be placed in the 18th century, specifically from the 1740–1750 period. The original prototype by Pierre Subleyras was executed between 1740 (the year of Lambertini’s election to the papal throne) and 1741. The painting in question is configured as an era replica or a contemporaneous workshop derivative, made to satisfy the very high demand for official portraits of the new Pope by ecclesiastical institutions, diplomats and private collectors during his pontificate (1740–1758). Condition report: The work presents in discreet conservative condition, with significant superficial craquelure and time-related alterations. The figurative composition maintains good legibility, particularly in the face, vestments and ornamental details. A specialist check of the stability of the painterly layer and any presence of overpainting is recommended. The frame is provided free of charge and as a gift with the work and should therefore be considered an accessory element, not included in the monetary valuation of the painting. Because of the natural fragility of antique and gilded frames, any damages, detachments, breaks or losses of parts of the frame occurring during transport or shipment cannot be subject to reimbursement, indemnification or dispute related to the value of the work. Packaging will, as far as possible, be prepared with maximum care to ensure safe transport. insured shipping Attribution Expertise *** For historical interest reasons the work cannot be shipped outside the European Community / insured shipment

Estimation:€1,000

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