Pope Paul III by Titian at the Vatican Library
23 May
2 Jun 2025
Vatican Apostolic Library
Through its international lending programme, Gaudium Magnum places Old Master works within major exhibition contexts, fostering dialogue between artistic heritage, institutional memory, and shared cultural histories.
The Gaudium Magnum Foundation was proud to loan Portrait of Pope Paul III by Tiziano Vecellio, known as Titian, to the exhibition Codex, organized by the Colnaghi Foundation and held at the Vatican Apostolic Library from May 23 to June 2 2025.
Painted around 1545–46, this commanding portrait captures the resolute gaze of the Pope who convened the Council of Trent, distinguished by his signature red camauro. Likely created during Titian’s stay in Rome, the work stands as a testament to both political power and artistic mastery.
Set against the stunning backdrops of the Vatican Library’s Sistine Hall and Vestibule, Codex brought together Old Master paintings and rare historical documents in celebration of the Jubilee Year. The exhibition offered a fresh lens on art, memory, and shared cultural heritage – placing the Gaudium Magnum Collection’s Titian in dialogue with masterpieces from across Europe and the rich archives of the Vatican.
As part of its ongoing Lending Library Program, the Foundation is committed to making its collection travel — connecting stories, institutions, and audiences across borders and through time.
Date Published:
