Pope Leo XII Visiting Thorvaldsen's Studios in the Piazza Barberini, 18 October 1826 1828 - 1829

Ditlev Martens’s “Pope Leo XII Visiting Thorvaldsen's Studios in the Piazza Barberini, 18 October 1826” (1828-1829) depicts a historical event in the studio of renowned Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen. The painting is a snapshot of the studio space, filled with sculptures, and captures the moment Pope Leo XII, accompanied by a procession of clergy and assistants, visited the studio. The scene is rendered realistically, showcasing the interior of the studio, with its wooden beams, and the numerous sculptures that adorn the space. This painting offers a glimpse into the artistic atmosphere of the 19th century, as well as the grandeur of the occasion. The painting is a historical artwork that celebrates the artistic achievements of Thorvaldsen and showcases the cultural significance of his studio as a center of artistic production during this period.