Compass Rose [reverse]

second quarter 19th century

Aloysio Arnaud, struck by L. Taglioni

Associated Names
Aloysio Arnaud

Medalist, French, active c. 1825/1846

L. Taglioni

Medalist, Italian, active second quarter 19th century

The sculpture depicts a compass rose with detailed cardinal and intercardinal points. It is shaped like an octagonal medallion or plaque. The material appears to be dark-colored, possibly bronze. The design includes a central motif with a fleur-de-lis and ornate decorative elements surrounding the compass directions. There is an inscription in Latin around the outer edge, and the sculptor's name "A. ARNAUD SCULP." is visible at the bottom. The craftsmanship displays classical engraving techniques. The sculpture is presented against a black background, highlighting its details and the texture of the metal.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    silver

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin

  • Dimensions

    overall (diameter): 4.1 cm (1 5/8 in.)
    gross weight: 50.61 gr (0.112 lb.)
    axis: 12:00

  • Accession Number

    1997.114.3.b

Associated Artworks

The relief depicts a profile portrait of a bearded man with a prominent nose and receding hairline. The man has a contemplative expression, and there is detailed texturing in the hair and beard. The sculpture has a bronze-like hue, indicating it may be made of a metal like bronze. It is designed as a circular medal or medallion with an inscription around the border, in a classic serif font. The material reflects light and gives the sculpture a polished appearance. The man's profile is in high relief against a dark background, creating a three-dimensional effect.

Flavius Gioia [obverse]

Vincenzo Catenacci, L. Taglioni

1825


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. 868, repro.

Inscriptions

around circumference: AD AMALPHIM NAT.AN.A.C.CI[reversed C]CCC SECVLO XIV EXCELLVIT; below compass rose: A.ARNAVD SCVLP.

Wikidata ID

Q63861546

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