Donation by Constantine to Sylvester C016 / 8790
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Donation by Constantine to Sylvester C016 / 8790
Pope Sylvester, having miraculously cured Emperor Constantine from leprosy by Baptism, receives the tiara symbolising temporal power from the newly converted Constantine. One of the cycle of 13th century frescoes in the basilica S.S. Quattro Coronati Rome, purporting to illustrate a decree issued by Constantine in the 4th century, which, after recording his conversion to Christianity, supposedly conferred his temporal powers to the pope and bequeathed Rome and the western part of the Roman Empire to the bishop of Rome and his successors. In the 15th century this document was exposed as one of the great forgeries of the Middle Ages. It probably dates from the 8th century, but it was often cited in the conflicts between the papacy and the secular powers of the 11th and 12th centuries
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9243433
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Constantine Cycle Emperor Forgery Fraudulent Fresco Hoax Leprosy Roman Empire Rome Baptism Decree Miracle Miracle Cure Miracles Sylvester
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a momentous scene from the 13th-century frescoes in Rome's basilica S. S. Quattro Coronati. The artwork depicts an alleged decree issued by Emperor Constantine in the 4th century, showcasing his conversion to Christianity and purportedly transferring his temporal powers to Pope Sylvester C016 / 8790. In this particular panel, we witness a miraculous event as Pope Sylvester cures Emperor Constantine of leprosy through baptism. The image showcases the symbolic transfer of power as the newly converted emperor presents the tiara to Pope Sylvester, signifying his recognition of papal authority over Rome and the western part of the Roman Empire. However, it is important to note that this document was later exposed as one of history's great forgeries during the 15th century. Despite its fraudulent nature, this artwork holds immense historical significance due to its influence on conflicts between secular powers and the papacy during the Middle Ages. It highlights how religious narratives were used strategically for political purposes. Through this photo print, Sheila Terry from Science Photo Library invites us into a world where miracles intertwine with deception and power struggles shape history. It serves as a reminder that even within art lies stories that challenge our understanding of truth and reshape our perception of past events.
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