seated pope receiving gift from kneeling man; large family kneeling behind; family figures numbered with key at L; two figures standing to PL of pope and one to PR; two men conversing at R foreground

The Rospigliosi Family Paying Homage to Pope Clement IX, 1667-1669

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This drawing remains a puzzle. A design for a painting to be executed over a curtained doorway, or "portiere," it depicts a family kneeling before Clement IX. The pope can be identified by the appearance of his family coat-of-arms, the four diamonds of the Rospigliosi, crowned by the papal tiara and crossed keys, which adorn both his papal throne and the archway in the background. The list of names in the lower left corner provides a key to identifying the numbered individuals in the scene. It has been suggested that they might be Clement IX's family, yet few of the names correspond to well known Rospigliosi family members, suggesting it might portray another family honoring the pope. The attribution of the drawing to Carlo Maratti was undoubtedly put forth because the successful Roman painter was known to have worked for Clement, yet it is not executed in his usual style. It is hoped that further research will uncover the identity of the sitters, so carefully recorded for posterity, and the artist who drew them.

Details
Title
The Rospigliosi Family Paying Homage to Pope Clement IX
Artist Life
(Rome), 1625 - 1713
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2010.47.3
Provenance
Joseph F. McCrindle (1923-2008), New York
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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seated pope receiving gift from kneeling man; large family kneeling behind; family figures numbered with key at L; two figures standing to PL of pope and one to PR; two men conversing at R foreground