Portrait of Pope Leo XII
by ROYER, Lodewijk, Marble, height 70 cm
The sculptor Lodewijk (Louis) Royer studied in Rome during the years 1823 to 1827. A highpoint of this period was undoubtedly his portrait of Pope Leo XII. Unusually, the pope posed personally for the young artist. This was not only important for Royer’s reputation, but also ensured that the bust was a good likeness.