Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 1749-1832 [obverse]

1809

after Leonhard Posch

Associated Names
Anonymous Artist

Medalist

Leonhard Posch

Artist After, German, 1750 - 1831

The sculpture is a round medallion depicting a side profile of a man's head and upper neck in relief. The subject has a prominent nose, firm chin, and curly hair. The sculpture is made of a smooth, reddish-brown material, likely bronze. There are small spots on the surface. The background is a simple, flat surface. The overall effect is a classic profile portrait similar to ancient coins or medals.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.
Not on view See artworks now on view

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    bronze

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin

  • Dimensions

    overall (diameter): 9.11 cm (3 9/16 in.)
    gross weight: 246.61 gr (0.544 lb.)
    axis: 6:00

  • Accession Number

    2000.158.15.a

Associated Artworks

The sculpture is a round, flat relief depicting Pegasus, the mythical winged horse. Pegasus is shown in a dynamic pose with its wings spread wide and forelegs raised. The material of the sculpture appears to be a bronze or similar metal, with a reddish-brown color and a polished finish. The surface features raised lettering along the top curve of the circle. The detail in the sculpture brings out the texture of Pegasus's mane, wings, and muscular form, presenting a highly detailed and artistic representation in a compact circular format.

Pegasus Soaring above Parnassus [reverse]

Anonymous Artist

1815

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Purchased c. 1960/1985 by Lisa and Leonard Baskin, Leeds, Massachusetts; gift 2000 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. 934, repro.

Inscriptions

on truncation: Posch

Wikidata ID

Q63861593

You may be interested in

Loading Results