The Papacy and the world

An allegorical painting in the Lateran Palace with a very ultramontane bent! It shows Pope Leo XIII (reigned 1878-1903) seated on Bernini's rendition of the Throne of St Peter in the Vatican basilica.

Seated as St Peter's Successor, he himself may be an allegory of the Church or even of Christ in His Church.

On his right are what I take to be personifications of architecture, the arts and poetry who render him (i.e., the Church) tribute. On his left are the personifications of Faith (or theology) clutching the Cross, and philosophy (or reason) holding some books.

In the forefront and turned away is what I believe is a personification of paganism or error.