3-028-356 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Ecclesiastical Council at Rome: South Transept of St. Peter's, arranged for the Opening Ceremonies, 1870. 'The arch which loads to the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament was the only one on the north side that was not concealed. The last arch was inclosed with a wooden screen, having a door, which formed one of the entrances to the Council Chamber...The screen, though of wood, is got up with such architectural effect that it yet harmonises very well with the grand interior of the cathedral. It is painted in imitation of various marbles, similar to those with which the interior of St. Peter's is overlaid. The pilasters supporting the pediment are in panels; on the top of each are the triple tiara and keys, with the Pope's arms on a shield. On the pediment itself is painted a figure of the Deity [god] holding in one hand a book, and with the other hand held out, as if explaining or declaring the true meaning of that which is written. This is expressed in the Latin inscription on a panel underneath, as follows: DOCETE OMNES GENTES ECCE EGO VOBISCVM SVM OMNIBVS DIEBVS VSQVE AD CONSVMMATIONEM SAECLI. The wooden doors are painted to represent bronze, with panels in which are figures of the Saviour, the Virgin, St. Peter, and St. Paul...'. From "Illustrated London News", 1870.