Francioni Mastromarino (1978) - La Papessa

“La Papessa”, created by artists Eleonora Francioni and Antonio Mastromarino, is an iconic sculpture for the work of the sculptor couple, a piece that challenges conventions, inspires deep reflections and shows artisanal mastery. Born as a female reinterpretation of the famous Pope by Bodini, it is a visual manifesto that tackles universal themes, such as power, gender dynamics, and overcoming social archetypes. Patriarchy is a stereotype and archetype rooted in our society, a structure that has shaped cultures and mindsets for centuries.

“La Papessa” stands as a symbol of rupture and transformation, inviting reflection on how social conventions can be challenged and redefined. Through her powerful and charismatic female figure, the work celebrates the strength and fertility of women, but also proposes an alternative vision of authority and leadership, free from the constraints of a system historically dominated by the “strong sex.”

The sculpture is an invitation to rethink power balances and to imagine a future in which cultural archetypes can evolve toward inclusivity and equality.

Every detail of “La Papessa” has been crafted with extreme precision to move and captivate attention:

Face and hands in bronze, made with the refined technique of lost-wax microcasting, convey intense expressiveness.

Many symbols to discover through observation in this work

The body in non-toxic hydroresin, enriched with eco-sustainable materials such as rice husk, makes the work an example of art that respects the environment.

Fruit of the twenty-year collaboration of Eleonora Francioni and Antonio Mastromarino, a duo of art and love, “La Papessa” was born in their art studio in Pietrasanta, in Tuscany, a place famous for the sculptural tradition.

The sculpture is carefully packaged in ecological packaging, wrapped with paper and wood shavings, and shipped via express courier to guarantee safe delivery.

International certifications: for shipments outside the EU, we provide an official certificate of free export issued by the Ministry of Culture. In addition, we are registered in the LUCID registry to ensure compliance with environmental regulations in Germany.
“La Papessa” is the emblematic work of the artists who have already won the hearts of collectors worldwide, with works present in prestigious private collections across the globe.

Free pickup at the authors’ studio in Pietrasanta (Tuscany - Italy)