Don Juan of Austria, 1547-1578 [obverse]

1571

Giovanni Vincenzo Melone

Associated Names
Giovanni Vincenzo Melone

Medalist, Italian, active 1571 - 1589

The sculpture is a detailed portrait on a coin featuring a profile view of a man's bust facing left. The man appears to be of noble status, as indicated by his intricately designed clothing, including a high ruffled collar and armor with ornate patterns. The subject has short, wavy hair and a neatly trimmed beard. The sculpture is cast in a metallic material that has a bronze appearance, with a worn and patinated surface indicating age. Surrounding the portrait is an inscription, likely comprising the name and titles associated with the individual depicted. The circular coin is lined with a beaded border.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    bronze

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin

  • Dimensions

    overall (diameter): 4.05 cm (1 5/8 in.)
    gross weight: 20.89 gr (0.046 lb.)
    axis: 12:00

  • Accession Number

    1997.114.22.a

Associated Artworks

This is a photograph of an ancient coin or medallion. The coin features a central figure standing on a pedestal or column, surrounded by intricate designs and smaller figures. The surface of the coin shows signs of wear and patina. Around the outer edge, there is an inscription whose letters are visible but worn. The central figure appears to be holding an object, and additional small depictions can be seen around the pedestal. The artistry of the coin reflects a high level of craftsmanship typical of historical minting, with attention to detail in both the figure and the surrounding designs.

Allegory Celebrating Victory at Lepanto [reverse]

Giovanni Vincenzo Melone

1571


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. 828, repro.

Inscriptions

around circumference: IOANNES AVSTRIAE.CAROLI.V.FIL.AET.SV.ANN.XXIIII. (John of Austria, son of [Emperor] Charles V, 24 years of age); below truncation: MELON.F.1571

Wikidata ID

Q63861824

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