Chronological Table of Popes in Church History, 1880

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Title: Histoire de l’Église (History of the Church) Napoléon Thomas (1804-1879) This chronological table of popes from St. Peter to … Read more Title: Histoire de l’Église (History of the Church) Napoléon Thomas (1804-1879) This chronological table of popes from St. Peter to Pope Pius IX (who died in 1878) presents them in close ranks, arranged in a semicircle, each with a number corresponding to their name. In the center, Religion is depicted as a young woman, dressed in a robe with a mantle drawn up over her head like a veil. She holds the cross in her left hand and raises the chalice with her right hand. Above her head hovers the dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit. Napoléon Thomas (1804-1879) was a French artist known for his contributions to the field of art, particularly as a painter and lithographer. Here are some key details about him and his work: 1. **Life and Background:** Napoléon Thomas was born in 1804. While there isn't an extensive amount of information available about his personal life, he is primarily recognized for his artistic achievements. 2. **Artistic Career:** Thomas was a skilled lithographer and painter. Lithography is a method of printing based on the immiscibility of oil and water. It involves creating images on a flat surface with a greasy substance and then using that surface to transfer the image onto paper or other materials. It was a popular medium for producing illustrations and prints during the 19th century. 3. **Chronological Table of Popes:** The chronological table of popes from Saint Peter to Pope Pius IX (who died in 1878) suggests that Napoléon Thomas may have created educational or religious-themed artworks, possibly related to the history of the Catholic Church or papal succession. 4. **Legacy:** While not widely recognized as some other artists of his time, Napoléon Thomas likely had a significant impact within his artistic niche, especially if he produced works related to religious or historical subjects. 5. **Artistic Contribution:** Napoléon Thomas's work, such as the chronological table of popes, may have been used for educational purposes, possibly in religious institutions, to visually represent the history and succession of popes within the Catholic Church. It's important to note that more detailed information about Napoléon Thomas's life and specific works may require further research into historical records and art archives. Provenance: The Winfield Robbins print collection of Arlington, Mass. See less