# @phillipsauction on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/CVljDIjrXm-
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/12829559-phillipsauction-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/thumbnails/83cad1799a.jpg
- **Posted:** 2021-10-28T21:02:55.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Phillips (@phillipsauction) — https://gondola.cc/phillipsauction

## Caption

Forming part of Francis Bacon’s celebrated papal portrait series which spanned over two decades, ‘Pope with Owls’ is positioned at a critical juncture in the evolution of the artist’s interrogations into one of the most recognizable subjects in his oeuvre. The work takes as its reference the canonical portrait of Pope Innocent X by Diego Velázquez, an image which acted as a touchstone for the artist’s explorations into the rendering of flesh and psychological deconstruction between 1949 and 1971. The Papal paintings have gained art historical significance not only for Bacon’s masterful execution but also for their subversion of the old master source.

On offer in our 17 November 20th Century & Contemporary Art Evening Sale in New York, this marks the first time this work will come to auction. Experience it IRL 8-16 November at 432 Park Avenue. Learn more via link in bio. 

Pro-tip: #FrancisBacon was born on this day in 1909. Happy Birthday!

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## Tags

francisbacon

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