President Lee Presents Pope Leo XIV with White Porcelain Jar and 'Embrace of God' Sculpture

President Lee Jae-myung, currently visiting the Holy See, met with Pope Leo XIV on June 15 (local time) and presented him with a sculpture titled 'Embrace of God.'

The Presidential Office explained that the piece, which depicts the biblical story of the 'Prodigal Son,' was chosen as a gift for its symbolism of compassion, forgiveness, reconciliation, and the restoration of community.

In addition, a multi-purpose white porcelain jar was presented, chosen for how the neatness and aesthetics of emptiness, characteristic of Korean white porcelain, align with the values of priestly poverty and reflection.

Gifts were also prepared for Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State.

These included a set of a brush holder, a business card holder, and a pen tray decorated with wildflower patterns using traditional lacquer techniques, along with premium red ginseng extract, offered with wishes for the Cardinal's health.

In return, the Pope presented President Lee with the 'Message for the 59th World Day of Peace by Pope Leo XIV,' a book on the Apostolic Palace, and a 'Cornucopia' ceramic.

The Cornucopia, a reproduction of the floor decoration in the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament at St. Peter's Basilica, features a horn overflowing with fruits, grains, and flowers, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.

The Holy See explained that "the Cornucopia signifies the abundant overflow of the fruits and graces of the Holy Spirit," and "symbolizes an inexhaustible gift of life," according to a written briefing by Kang Yu-jung, the Presidential Spokesperson.

Cardinal Parolin presented President Lee with a decorative ceramic plate.

The piece is a reproduction of a famous fresco by Raphael depicting the pillar of cloud from the Bible, which guided the Israelites during their exodus from Egypt.

The Secretariat of State of the Holy See stated that this scene symbolizes divine protection and guidance.

Upon hearing the meaning behind the gift—that it represents a wish for the President to "lead the people on the right path and for South Korea to overflow with abundance and prosperity"—President Lee expressed his gratitude.

(Photo: Courtesy of the Presidential Office, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.