Domenico Novello Malatesta, 1418-1465, Lord of Cesena and Cervia 1429 [obverse]

Pisanello

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture is a relief of a man's profile on a round, coin-like medallion. The subject has short, wavy hair and wears an outfit with a high collar. It is made of bronze with inscriptions in Latin surrounding the figure, likely identifying a historical figure. The relief emphasizes the contours of the face, neck, and clothing. There is a small hole near the top edge, suggesting it may have been intended for hanging or display. The texture of the relief gives it a three-dimensional effect against the flat surface of the medallion.