Ralph J. Menconi

American, 1915 - 1972

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The sculpture on the medallion-like object portrays a female figure in flowing robes at the center. The material is metallic bronze with a burnished finish. Surrounding the woman are symbols: two sailing ships on a wavy sea to her left, and an iconic building with a clock tower and the Liberty Bell to her right. Additionally, there are shields on the lower right, and an inscription encircles the edge of the sculpture. The sculpted elements are embossed against the flat circular background.
Ralph J. Menconi, Medallic Art Company, The Unanimous Declaration of the Thirteen United States of America [reverse], 1966, bronze, Corcoran Collection (Gift of Clyde C. Trees through subscription to the Society of Medalists), 2015.19.3791.b

The Unanimous Declaration of the Thirteen United States of America [reverse]

Ralph J. Menconi, Medallic Art Company · 1966 · bronze ·  Accession ID  2015.19.3791.b

The sculpture is a profile relief portrait of a man on a circular medal or medallion. The man has a prominent nose, a pronounced brow, and detailed, wavy hair that extends to his neck. He appears to be wearing formal attire with a high-collared coat or jacket. The sculpture is made from a material resembling bronze, giving it a warm, metallic, coppery-brown color. Inscribed text on the raised rim of the circular edge reads: "WE HOLD THESE TRUTHS TO BE SELF EVIDENT THAT ALL MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL ENDOWED BY THEIR CREATOR WITH CERTAIN UNALIENABLE RIGHTS AMONG THESE ARE LIFE LIBERTY AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS." The face, hair, and clothing show high craftsmanship, with the side profile position conveying a classic and formal representation typical of honorary medallions or commemorative coins.
Ralph J. Menconi, Medallic Art Company, Thomas Jefferson [obverse], 1966, bronze, Corcoran Collection (Gift of Clyde C. Trees through subscription to the Society of Medalists), 2015.19.3791.a

Thomas Jefferson [obverse]

Ralph J. Menconi, Medallic Art Company · 1966 · bronze ·  Accession ID  2015.19.3791.a