The Constellation Capricorn [reverse]

1537

Domenico di Polo de' Vetri

Associated Names
Domenico di Polo de' Vetri

Medalist, Florentine, after 1480 - 1547

This is a photograph of a coin featuring an engraving of a mythical creature and stars. The coin displays a detailed engraving of a creature that is half-goat, half-fish, resembling the astrological symbol of Capricorn. Surrounding the creature are multiple stars arranged in an arc above it. Around the border of the coin, there is an inscription in Latin. The coin has an aged, tarnished appearance with visible wear and patina contributing to its historical allure and texture. The background is a solid black.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    bronze

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin

  • Dimensions

    overall (diameter): 3.36 cm (1 5/16 in.)
    gross weight: 25.65 gr (0.057 lb.)
    axis: 6:00

  • Accession Number

    1998.108.4.b

Associated Artworks

The image shows a relief sculpture of a man's profile on a coin or medallion. The sculpture features a man with curly hair and a short beard, wearing a detailed garment with circular decorations. It is made of a metallic material with a reddish-brown color and hints of oxidization, resembling aged copper or bronze. There is a border with engraved text around the figure, enhancing the historic and antique look. The craftsmanship includes high relief, giving the sculpture a textured and three-dimensional appearance.

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

Domenico di Polo de' Vetri

1537

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Purchased c. 1960/1985 by Lisa and Leonard Baskin, Leeds, Massachusetts; gift 1998 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. 821, repro.

Inscriptions

around circumference: :ANIMI:CONSCIENTIA:ET:FIDVCIA:FATI:* (with a clear conscience and with confidence in fate)

Wikidata ID

Q63861712

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