Artwork preview

Cardinal Alessandro Farnese, 1520-1589 [obverse]

Giovanni Vincenzo Melone

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture is a round medallion featuring a profile portrait of a man. The man is depicted with a beard and a partially bald head with detailed texturing to suggest hair and facial hair. The medallion is made of a brownish-copper material, with the color variations emphasizing the depth and texture of the sculpture. The border of the medal is decorated with small, raised circles, and an inscription encircles the portrait, reading "ALEXANDER CARD. FARN. S.R.E. VICECAN" which might identify the individual portrayed. The medallion appears finely crafted, with attention to detail in the facial features and clothing, and there's a small hole near the top edge.

Artwork Details

Date
1575
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
4601 × 4601 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original