Study after Velázquez’s Portrait of Pope
Study after Velázquez’s Portrait of Pope Innocent X
© Francis Bacon (1953)
Best Interpretation: “The Pope really knew how to hit those high notes during the processional.” -Kevin Fitzpatrick
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Issue Aug 2008
Contemporary
4 Responses to “Study after Velázquez’s Portrait of Pope”
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What immediately came to mind, in an instant, was the title “Last Rites.” The pope is in the electric chair, and right when the switch is flipped, he’s yelling, “I’m innocent!”
The statement “I’m innocent” reminds me of prisoners… they all say they’re innocent.
This painting in my view reflects the battle of good and evil among the church. Like the Pope is paying the ultimate sacrifice for all the priests who touch little kids, and do bad deeds. This is a request for forgiveness for all those who represent him, and misbehaved. It is like a horror scene… in reality it really is one with Pedophilia.
The Pope really knew how to hit those high notes during the processional.