This ca. 1667 portrait of Pope Alexander VII hangs in The Walters Art Gallery in Baltimore, Maryland.
"The stately figure of the pope sits before a lavish drapery, suggesting an aristocratic setting. He raises his right hand with its papal ring in a gesture of benediction. By seeing the pope blessing his audience, viewers are reminded that he is Christ's representative on earth.
Fabio Chigi, who became Pope Alexander VII, ruled from 1655 until his death in 1667. Papal portraits were produced in many versions and were widely distributed. They were given as diplomatic gifts or acquired as expressions of political allegiance. This painting was probably executed by an assistant after an original by Baciccio." -- The Walters Art Gallery
"Alexander VII died in 1667 and was memorialized in a spectacular tomb by Bernini. It is famous for the skeleton holding a gilded hourglass, just above the doors. He was succeeded by Pope Clement IX (1667–69)." -- Wikipedia
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