Artwork preview

Mercury and a Broken Obelisk [reverse]

Italian 16th Century

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture is a relief on a round medallion or medal. It features a standing nude human figure holding a staff in their left hand with a decorative end. The figure's right hand rests on a tall, rectangular slab adorned with detailed carvings or inscriptions resembling ancient scripts or symbols. The figure has a draped cloth over the head, falling down the back. The relief is made from a bronze-like material and has an aged texture. The word "INSTAURATOR" is inscribed vertically on the right side of the figure. The figure is depicted in a classical style, emphasizing human anatomy and proportions.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1545/1550
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
4548 × 4548 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original