Pope Adrian VI after 1520

This anonymous portrait of Pope Adrian VI, dating after 1520, is a striking example of Renaissance portraiture. The painting depicts the Pope in profile, wearing his elaborate papal robes and a triple tiara, emphasizing his status and authority. The artist's meticulous detail in rendering the fabric and jewelry contributes to the realism and grandeur of the work. The shields on either side of the Pope's head, symbolizing his family crests, further highlight his lineage and power. Now housed in the Rijksmuseum, this portrait offers a glimpse into the life and imagery of this influential figure of the early 16th century.