Procession for the Papal Installation: A Framed 18th Century Engraving by Picart
"Le Pape va en Ceremonie prendre Possesion du Ponrificat dans l'Eglise de St Jean de Latran" is a framed 18th century engraving by Bernard Picart. It was published in Amsterdam in 1722. It depicts a grand procession involving hundreds of figures and horses, with the Pope on horseback on the right as part of the procession in the 2nd to lowest row of figures with his carriage following on the left. The scene is set against a backdrop of a cityscape of Rome, adding depth to the composition. This work captures the moment when the Pope ceremonially takes possession of the pontificate at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, which is considered the mother church of all churches in Rome and the world. Other buildings are labelled, such as Sancta Santa, also known as Sancta Sanctorum, the old chapel of the Popes where visitors can worship the image of the Holy Saviour and the Holy Stairs. Members of the procession are also identified in groups. The engraving is noted for its intricate details and its large format.
Creator: Bernard Picart (1673 - 1733, French)
Creation Year: 1722
Dimensions: Height: 21.88 in (55.58 cm) Width: 42.88 in (108.92 cm) Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)
Medium: Engraving
Condition: See description below.
"Le Pape va en Ceremonie prendre Possesion du Ponrificat dans l'Eglise de St Jean de Latran" is a framed 18th century engraving by Bernard Picart. It was published in Amsterdam in 1722. It depicts a grand procession involving hundreds of figures and horses, with the Pope on horseback on the right as part of the procession in the 2nd to lowest row of figures with his carriage following on the left. The scene is set against a backdrop of a cityscape of Rome, adding depth to the composition. This work captures the moment when the Pope ceremonially takes possession of the pontificate at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, which is considered the mother church of all churches in Rome and the world. Other buildings are labelled, such as Sancta Santa, also known as Sancta Sanctorum, the old chapel of the Popes where visitors can worship the image of the Holy Saviour and the Holy Stairs. Members of the procession are also identified in groups. The engraving is noted for its intricate details and its large format.
Creator: Bernard Picart (1673 - 1733, French)
Creation Year: 1722
Dimensions: Height: 21.88 in (55.58 cm) Width: 42.88 in (108.92 cm) Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)
Medium: Engraving
Condition: See description below.
"Le Pape va en Ceremonie prendre Possesion du Ponrificat dans l'Eglise de St Jean de Latran" is a framed 18th century engraving by Bernard Picart. It was published in Amsterdam in 1722. It depicts a grand procession involving hundreds of figures and horses, with the Pope on horseback on the right as part of the procession in the 2nd to lowest row of figures with his carriage following on the left. The scene is set against a backdrop of a cityscape of Rome, adding depth to the composition. This work captures the moment when the Pope ceremonially takes possession of the pontificate at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, which is considered the mother church of all churches in Rome and the world. Other buildings are labelled, such as Sancta Santa, also known as Sancta Sanctorum, the old chapel of the Popes where visitors can worship the image of the Holy Saviour and the Holy Stairs. Members of the procession are also identified in groups. The engraving is noted for its intricate details and its large format.
Creator: Bernard Picart (1673 - 1733, French)
Creation Year: 1722
Dimensions: Height: 21.88 in (55.58 cm) Width: 42.88 in (108.92 cm) Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)
Medium: Engraving
Condition: See description below.
The engraving, which consists of two engravings, as issued, which are joined in the middle to capture the full view of the procession. It is presented in an ornate, intentionally antiqued frame with gold-colored outer and inner trim and a dark brown central cove. The mat is cream-colored. The frame measures 21 7/8" high, 42 7/8" wide and 1" in depth. The engraving is in very good condition.
The piece is held by the British Museum, among other institutions.
Picart’s work is part of a broader collection titled “Cérémonies et coutumes religieuses de tous les peuples du monde,” which aimed to document religious rituals and customs from around the world. This collection was notable for its objective portrayal of diverse religious practices, promoting religious tolerance and understanding during a time when such perspectives were not widely embraced. The engraving is a testament to Picart’s skill in capturing detailed and complex ceremonies, contributing to the historical record of religious practices in the 18th century.
Bernard Picart (1673–1733) was a prominent French engraver, draftsman, and book illustrator known for his contributions to the art of printmaking during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Born in Paris on June 11, 1673, he was the son of Étienne Picart, a noted engraver. Bernard trained at the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture under esteemed artists such as Charles le Brun and Sébastien Leclerc.
Picart’s early career was marked by his relocation to the Netherlands following the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685, which led to the persecution of Huguenots like himself. In 1710, he settled in Holland with his father. His most celebrated work is the ten-volume series “Cérémonies et Coutumes Religieuses de tous les Peuples du Monde,” created in collaboration with publisher Jean-Frédéric Bernard between 1723 and 1743. This monumental work aimed to document religious rituals from around the world with objectivity and authenticity.
Throughout his career, Picart produced numerous engravings for various publications, including illustrations for the Bible and Ovid’s “Metamorphoses.” His works were characterized by their detailed representation and historical significance, influencing depictions of religious customs for centuries. Picart also contributed to projects such as “Gemmæ Antiquæ Cælatæ” and collaborated with other artists like Cornelis de Bruyn. Picart’s legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which remains a valuable resource for understanding religious and cultural practices of his time. He passed away in Amsterdam on May 8, 1733.
