Rome, Italy: St. Paul Outside the Walls: Tomb and Apse
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Authors
Sheppard, Beth M.
Issue Date
May 20, 2017
Type
Image
Language
Keywords
Italy , Rome , Piazzale San Paolo , Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls , Basilica Papale di San Paolo fuori le Mura , St. Paul Outside the Walls , Candelabrum of the Easter Candle , Candelabrum of the Paschal Candle , Apses , Saint Paul's Tomb , Tombs , Medieval Architecture , Gothic Architecture , High Altars , Mosaics , Jesus Christ in Art , Apostles in Art , Porphyry Columns , Baldachinos , Baldachins
Alternative Title
Abstract
Description
A tourist takes a photo of the Candelabrum of the Paschal (Easter) Candle in the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls (Rome, Italy). Behind her in the photograph is the high altar. The Gothic baldachino, or canopy over the high papal altar, was built in 1285 by Arnolfo di Cambio. The corner niches of the canopy feature statues of Paul, Peter, Timothy and Bartholomew (the Abbot at that time). The canopy is supported by four porphyry columns. The mortal remains of St. Paul are kept in a white marble sarcophagus under the high altar. The large mosaic in the apse was ordered by Innocent III (1198-1216) and was restored in later centuries. It develops the theme of Christ as Judge, sitting on a throne of glory and holding the book of the gospels. St. Peter and St. Andrew are on His left, and on His right are St. Paul and St. Luke. The other apostles appear in the register below in two groups, with two angels in the middle flanking the instruments of Christ�s Passion; the cross stands in the center.
Citation
Publisher
License
CC BY-NC-SA 4.0