Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, 1417-1468, Lord of Rimini and Fano [obverse]

Matteo de' Pasti

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture is a bas-relief medallion featuring a profile portrait of a man with hair covering the ears. The material appears to be a copper or bronze alloy, evident from its brownish color and metallic sheen. The sculpture shows the subject facing left, capturing the likeness in intricate detail, surrounding which is an inscription that suggests a title or name in raised letters. This circular medallion reflects a traditional form of portraiture, focusing on the individual's facial features and attire.