Artwork preview

Cosimo I de' Medici, 1519-1574, Duke of Florence 1537 [obverse]

Pier Paolo Galeotti

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a round sculpture in the form of a medallion or coin featuring a profile portrait of a bearded man facing to the right. The subject appears to be wearing detailed armor or ceremonial attire, indicated by the intricately carved patterns and embellishments on his shoulder and chest. The material of the sculpture is a gold-colored metal, giving it a shiny and reflective appearance. Encircling the edge of the medallion is an inscription in Latin, "COSMVS MEDIOL FOREN DVX," along with a series of small dots forming a border around the coin's perimeter. The sculpture has a slightly worn texture. The detailing in the carving is precise, capturing the man's facial features and attire in a realistic and elegant manner.

Artwork Details

Date
1567
Medium
gilded bronze
Dimensions
5045 × 5045 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original