The Emperor Enlightened, at an Altar with the Tablets of the Law Overlaid by the Scroll of the Gospels [reverse]

Johann Georg Holtzhey

National Gallery of Art

The relief is on a circular medal. A figure is seen kneeling and facing a beam of light descending from above. The figure wears a flowing robe, reaching out with one arm towards the light. Next to the figure is a pedestal with a large book labeled "LIB. ERGO". The sides of the book have intricate patterns and carvings. At the base of the pedestal, there is a detailed plant and a ground textured as a natural setting. The sculpture is cast in metal with a dark patina, highlighting the engravings. The border of the medal has inscriptions: "AMICISSIMA VERITAS" above the scene and the date "MDCCLXXXII" or 1782 in Roman numerals at the bottom. The relief shows fine craftsmanship with attention to anatomical detail and drapery typical of its historical period.