Pope Leo’s mosaic portrait ready for Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls

The Vatican Mosaic Studio of the Fabric of Saint Peter has completed a mosaic medallion honoring Pope Leo XIV, the Holy See announced.

Following tradition, the mosaic was finished just over eight months after his election and will be installed in the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, near the portrait of Pope Francis.

The 137-centimeter roundel was crafted with glass enamels and gold on a metal structure, using the ancient cut-mosaic technique and traditional Vatican oil-based mastic.

The design was based on a preparatory oil painting by Master Rodolfo Papa, created to guide its translation into mosaic, Vatican News has reported.

While the mosaic will be displayed in the Basilica, the original painted sketch will be preserved at the Fabric of Saint Peter alongside portraits of other Popes.