THE BODY OF POPE FORMOSUS EXHUMED FOR TRIAL BY ORDER OF POPE STEPHEN VII,1870's Steel Engraving After LAURENS

Published by Art Journal

About this Item

The print titled "THE BODY OF POPE FORMOSUS EXHUMED FOR TRIAL BY ORDER OF POPE STEPHEN VII." by artist JEAN-PAUL LAURENS is a dramatic black and white depiction of the infamous "Cadaver Synod" of 897 CE, showcasing a macabre historical moment in a church setting with stone walls and a visible cross, featuring three main figures: a standing figure gesturing accusatorily, a seated deceased pope (Formosus) propped up on a throne, and a figure standing at a lectern. This artwork captures the grim medieval church interior with vaulted arches and stone architecture, characteristic of 19th-century historical painting with strong contrast and theatrical arrangement of figures. The print depicts the controversial "Cadaver Synod" where Pope Stephen VII had his predecessor Pope Formosus's corpse exhumed, dressed in papal regalia, and put on trial nine months after his death, considered one of the most macabre episodes in papal history. The print demonstrates strong dramatic tension through its composition and lighting, effectively capturing this unusual and dark moment in church history, with architectural details and period costumes showing careful attention to historical accuracy, while the stark contrasts and dramatic poses reflect the 19th-century academic style of historical painting. Approx Image Size: 10 x 7 ins - Approx Overall Size With Borders : 13 1/2 x 9 1/2 ins CONDITION: FULL PAGE STEEL ENGRAVING. BLANK ON THE BACK. HEAVY CARD STOCK PAPER OF THE AGE. Image is clear and sharp with beautiful detail. As scanned. This beautiful print would look great matted and framed. Or an art supply store can provide you with a selection of frames for old art treasures NOTE THE FOLLOWING BEFORE YOU PURCHASE: This is a GENUINE ANTIQUE PRINT. It is NOT a modern reproduction, ie. a laser scan, photocopy etc. It is the original from the antique publication. This print was published on the date mentioned, or circa of the date mentioned at the top of the page. The term "print" is referred to an image on a piece of paper. The print I have for sale, like many antique prints that you see online, originate from an antique book or atlas publication. The publication may not always be known. If you have any questions, emails are welcome.

Seller Inventory # 4422

Bibliographic Details

• Title: THE BODY OF POPE FORMOSUS EXHUMED FOR TRIAL BY ORDER OF POPE STEPHEN VII,1870's Steel Engraving After LAURENS
• Publisher: Art Journal
• Binding: no binding
• Condition: very good
• Seller catalogs:
  • Religious