Pope Pius VI on Horseback

Antonio and Lorenzo Cialli Italian

Not on view

This equestrian sculpture depicts Pope Pius VI (1717–1799) on horseback, with his arm raised in blessing. The composition of the work recalls the long tradition of Italian public sculpture in which prominent figures were often depicted on horseback in heroic poses. The sculpture is remarkable for its level of detail, as earthenware is a difficult medium in which to execute precise motifs and expressions. It appears that relatively few examples of this portrait of Pius VI were produced, perhaps due to the challenges of sculpting in earthenware.

Pope Pius VI on Horseback, Antonio and Lorenzo Cialli, White glazed earthenware, Italian, Rome

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Pope Pius VI on Horseback, Antonio and Lorenzo Cialli, White glazed earthenware, Italian, Rome
Pope Pius VI on Horseback, Antonio and Lorenzo Cialli, White glazed earthenware, Italian, Rome
Pope Pius VI on Horseback, Antonio and Lorenzo Cialli, White glazed earthenware, Italian, Rome
Pope Pius VI on Horseback, Antonio and Lorenzo Cialli, White glazed earthenware, Italian, Rome
Pope Pius VI on Horseback, Antonio and Lorenzo Cialli, White glazed earthenware, Italian, Rome
Pope Pius VI on Horseback, Antonio and Lorenzo Cialli, White glazed earthenware, Italian, Rome
Pope Pius VI on Horseback, Antonio and Lorenzo Cialli, White glazed earthenware, Italian, Rome
Pope Pius VI on Horseback, Antonio and Lorenzo Cialli, White glazed earthenware, Italian, Rome

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