Karl Briullov - Political Manifestation in Rome (Speech of Pope Pius IX from the Balcony of the Papal Palace) - (1851)

Karl Briullov completed this work in 1851 and never saw it in person. The painting depicts a scene from the coronation of Pius IX as Pope, when he steps out on to a balcony to address a crowd below in Rome. Not only is the speech's political significance evident, but also the significance of the setting itself—a captivating Rome sentry box. Briullov's painting depicts a historical event in Rome, where Pope Pius IX addressed a political demonstration from the balcony of the Papal Palace. The painting captures the energy and tension of the moment, with figures of various social classes and emotions filling the scene.