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Opening of the Porta Santa [reverse]

Giovan Federico Bonzagni

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture on this bronze medallion depicts a scene of a figure in elaborate robes knocking down a brick wall with the help of an assistant. Surrounding them are onlookers, some in distinctive headgear. An angelic figure above the scene directs light towards the central figures. The bronze medallion has a braided border and an inscription that reads "DOMVS DEI ET PORTA COELI 1575." The scene conveys action and purpose against a backdrop of architectural and natural elements.

Artwork Details

Date
1575
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
4280 × 4280 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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