Benedict XVI Has Himself Painted As "Pope Emeritus"

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Benedict XVI Has Himself Painted As "Pope Emeritus"

gloria.tv | November 4, 2022

Russian-born artist Natalia Tsarkova who lives in Rome and officially portrayed John Paul II (2000) and Benedict XVI (2007) has now painted the latter as “Pope emeritus” as well.

Tsarkova told EWTN.com about the rosary she painted in Benedict’s hand that it is “part of him; it’s his favorite rosary.” Other details of the picture include the pectoral cross and the fisherman’s ring, the sign of the Petrine office which Francis doesn't wear.

The painter unveiled the portrait in the presence of Benedict at a 3 November ceremony at Palazzo Cesi, a hotel near the Vatican.

The image shows Msgr. Georg Ratzinger (+2020) and Archbishop Georg Gänswein, as well as the women caring for Benedict. Other details include Benedict's red-haired cat washing itself in the background and a reflection in a jug showing Benedict XVI playing the piano.