Vatikan, Sixtinische Kapelle, Deckenverzierung (8554484490)

This ornate frescoed vault features a central medallion depicting Charity as a mother surrounded by infants. Below, two winged putti hold green shields flanking the Medici papal coat of arms, which is crowned by the papal tiara and the crossed keys of Saint Peter. The composition is framed by intricate gold-toned stucco and classical motifs inspired by ancient Roman 'grotesque' designs.

The decoration of the Raphael Loggia represents the High Renaissance synthesis of classical Roman aesthetics—specifically the 'grotesques' rediscovered in Nero's Domus Aurea—with Christian iconography. Under the patronage of the Medici Pope Leo X, this project exemplified the Neoplatonic effort to harmonize ancient pagan form with Catholic theology.