The artwork titled “The Mass of Bolsena, from the Stanza dell’Eliodor (detail)” is a significant fresco by the renowned High Renaissance artist Raphael, created between 1511 and 1514. As part of the Stanza dell’Eliodor series, this history painting is housed in the Vatican Museums in Vatican City. Raphael’s mastery in fresco technique is evident in this work, which reflects the artistic ideals of the High Renaissance with its emphasis on harmony, balance, and the integration of architecture, sculpture, and painting.

In the artwork, one observes a figure dressed in sumptuous cardinal’s robes, seated with an air of solemnity. His hands are clasped in prayer, and his gaze is turned slightly upwards, suggesting a moment of quiet contemplation or reverence. The attention to detail is remarkable, from the fabric’s textures to the individual hairs in his beard, showcasing Raphael’s skill in rendering the human form with a lifelike presence. The cardinal is seated upon an ornate throne, which is adorned with leonine sculptures that add a touch of prestige and power to his figure. The draping of the cloak and the tactile quality of the materials depicted manifest Raphael’s deftness in portraying different surfaces and bringing depth to the scene. The architectural elements, such as the polished columns in the background, serve to frame the subject and reinforce the classical influences pervasive during the High Renaissance period.