Hand-coloured Engraving – Papal Ceremony In The Sistine Chapel – Rome, Circa 1820-1850

Hand-coloured engraving – Papal Ceremony in the Vatican
Rome, circa 1820–1850
Publisher: Giacomo Antonelli, Via del Corso

Dimensions (with frame): 64 × 55 cm

A fine 19th-century hand-coloured engraving depicting a solemn papal mass celebrated in the Vatican Palace, titled “La solenne messa papale alla Sistina nel Palazzo Vaticano.” The print was published in Rome by the print seller Giacomo Antonelli, whose shop was located on Via del Corso and was active during the first half of the 19th century.

The composition presents a lively view of the ceremony taking place in the Sistine Chapel. The architecture and famous frescoes are rendered in a deliberately stylized manner, allowing the artist to emphasize the richness of the ceremonial scene and the large number of figures present. Numerous participants of the ritual can be identified: ecclesiastical dignitaries, officiants and attendants, each corresponding to a numbered legend printed below the image.

Among the spectators appear officers in Napoleonic-style uniforms, reflecting the historical context of the early 19th century and the pontificate of Pope Pius VII. Their presence highlights the diplomatic and political significance of papal ceremonies at the time.

Such engravings were produced in Rome for travelers undertaking the Grand Tour, who were fascinated by the spectacle of Vatican ceremonies and sought refined souvenirs of their stay in the Eternal City.

The engraving is enhanced with delicate hand colouring that brings vibrancy to the scene. It is presented in an elegant gilt frame under glass, giving the piece a strong decorative presence.

Condition: some foxing visible in the margins of the print. Wear to the lower part of the frame.

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