The Opening of the Holy Door [reverse]

1675

Giovanni Martino Hamerani

Associated Names
Giovanni Martino Hamerani

Medalist, Roman, 1646 - 1705

The sculpture is a relief plaque featuring numerous figures gathered around a central character. The central figure appears to be a religious leader, identified by elaborate headdress and robes. Surrounding this figure are other figures, some kneeling, with architectural elements like columns and a cross above a building entrance. The plaque is made of bronze with an aged brownish hue, giving it an antique appearance. The relief presents a narrative style with intricately carved figures.

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Artwork overview

Associated Artworks

The sculpture depicts a profile portrait of an individual wearing elaborate papal attire, including a detailed papal tiara. The figure faces to the left in a circular medal form. The top of the sculpture features the inscription "BENEDICTVS XIII." The material seems to be a bronze or bronze-like alloy, giving it a brownish-copper appearance with darker accents. The edges of the medal have an inscribed border. The piece is intricately detailed, with the texture and pattern of the papal garments meticulously rendered.

Benedict XIII (Piero Francesco Orsini, 1649-1730), Pope 1724 [obverse]

Ermenegildo Hamerani

1724

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Paul Bosco, New York); purchased 1993 by Mark Wilchusky, New York; gift 1995 to NGA.[1]
[1] Provenance from curator's acquisition proposal.

Associated Names

Bibliography

2007

  • Pollard, John Graham. Renaissance Medals. The Collections of the National Gallery of Art Systematic Catalogue. 2 vols. Washington, 2007: 1:no. 557, repro.

Inscriptions

around top circumference on banner: DOMVS.DEI.ET.PORTA.COELI / H (The House of the Lord, and the Gate of Heaven / H[amerani])

Wikidata ID

Q63861813

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