Pope Leo X with Cardinals Giulio de' Medici and Luigi de' Rossi (detail)
1518-19
Oil on wood, width of detail: 45 cm
Galleria degli Uffizi, Florence
An illuminated manuscript (somewhat similar in style and period to the Queen Mary's Psalter) lies open on the table in front of Pope Leo. On the same table rests a finely carved bell. Both objects undoubtedly reveal the exquisite tastes of the Pope who was an active patron of the arts. The velvets and damasks in their various rich tones add to the atmosphere of pomp and power.
