A skull wearing an ornate papal tiara, set with colorful jewels and topped with a cross. The Latin phrase Sic Transit Gloria Mundi (“Thus passes the glory of the world”) appears beside it on a black background. Original artwork by Ivy Malone.

The phrase is best known from the traditional papal coronation ceremony, used from 1409 until the mid-20th century. As the newly elected pope was carried through St. Peter’s Basilica, the procession stopped three times. A master of ceremonies would kneel, hold a reed with a tuft of smoldering flax, and as it burned away to nothing, proclaim: “Pater Sancte, sic transit gloria mundi!” meaning, “Holy Father, thus passes the glory of the world.” It is a solemn reminder that all worldly glory eventually fades.

Matte finish, heavyweight, archival-quality giclée print signed by the artist, with the option of hand-embellished gold foil.

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