Original oil pastel painting. A skull wearing an ornate papal tiara, set with colorful jewels and topped with a cross. Inspired by the Latin phrase Sic Transit Gloria Mundi (“Thus passes the glory of the world”).

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.

Oil pastels and metallic gold paint on 9"×12" heavy black paper. Signed.

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