Portret van paus Alexander VIII 1689 - 1714

This anonymous engraving from the Rijksmuseum depicts Pope Alexander VIII (1689-1714), also known as Ottobonus Venetus, in a close-up portrait. The pope is depicted wearing his traditional papal robes, including a decorative sash and a cap. The use of a dark background and a small oval frame create a sense of intimacy and focus the viewer's attention on the Pope's stoic expression. The engraved inscription reveals the date of his election as pope, October 1689, which provides further insight into the historical context of this piece. This work is a fascinating example of portraiture from the 17th century and offers a glimpse into the life and power of a prominent religious figure.