Unicorn Purifying the Realm [reverse]

1549

Giovan Federico Bonzagni

Associated Names
Giovan Federico Bonzagni

Medalist, Parmese, after 1507 - 1588

The sculpture on the coin features a pastoral scene with a horse and foal, a goat, and a snake on the ground. Trees, mountains, and a stone building or fortress are visible in the background. The relief is embossed on a bronze or similar metal coin, with the text "IN VIRTUTE TUA SERVATI SUMUS" around the edge. The craftsmanship is detailed and appears historical and regal.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    bronze

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin

  • Dimensions

    overall (diameter): 3.58 cm (1 7/16 in.)
    gross weight: 23.28 gr (0.051 lb.)
    axis: 12:00

  • Accession Number

    1997.114.2.b

Associated Artworks

The image shows a coin with a detailed relief of an individual's profile. The coin has Latin text around the edge and the profile features detailed facial features, facial hair, and intricate clothing decorations. The lettering includes "PAULVS III PONT MAX AN XVI."

Paul III (Alessandro Farnese, 1466-1549), Pope 1534 [obverse]

Giovan Federico Bonzagni

1549

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Lisa and Leonard Baskin, Leeds, Massachusetts; gift 1997 to NGA.

Associated Names

Bibliography

2007

  • Pollard, John Graham. Renaissance Medals. The Collections of the National Gallery of Art Systematic Catalogue. 2 vols. Washington, 2007: 2:no. 827, repro.

Inscriptions

around circumference: IN.VIRTVTE.TVA.SERVATI.SVMVS. (We are all saved through your virtue)

Wikidata ID

Q63861805

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