Ferdinand I, 1503-1564, Archduke of Austria 1521, Holy Roman Emperor 1556

Hans Schwarz

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture is a round medallion featuring the profile of a man depicted in relief. The subject is shown facing to the left, wearing a distinctive hat with a large, decorated brim and adorned clothing that suggests a historical or regal figure. This sculpture is made from a dark metal, possibly bronze or copper, which has developed a patina and shows slight variations in color due to aging. The figure is surrounded by raised text in a circle around the edge of the medallion. The scale and orientation of the medallion suggest it is likely designed to be viewed in close proximity, indicating it could be used as a decorative or commemorative piece, meant to be held or displayed as a flat object. A small hole at the top suggests it might be hung or attached to something for display purposes.