Leo XIII
1860
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1860
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This black-and-white portrait shows an older man in a white robe and white hat, framed inside a circular border. Below his head, there’s a detailed emblem with a dome on top, and the words "LEO XIII PONTIFEX MAXIMUS" are carved under it. The edges of the image have a textured look, like fine lines drawn closely together. The "Pontifex Maximus" title means this man held the highest rank in the Catholic Church. The careful shading and lines suggest this was made using a printmaking method. Look up engraving to see how artists create detailed images like this one.
