Sir Richard Shelley, c. 1513-c. 1589, Prior of England in Malta and Turcopolier [obverse]

Bernardo Rantwyck

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture is a circular medallion featuring the profile of a man. He has a beard and wears what appears to be armor with detailed engravings, including a cross-like design. The material of the medallion is metal with an aged, greenish-brown patina. The medallion is inscribed with text along its border, including the name "RICARDVS SCHELLEIVS PRIOR ANGLIE" in engraved capital letters. The sculpture's subject is depicted in a raised relief format against the flat background of the medallion. There is a small hole at the upper part, suggesting it may have been intended to be hung or worn.