Alexander VII (Fabio Chigi, 1599-1667), Pope 1655 [obverse]

1665

Gasparo Morone Mola

Associated Names
Gasparo Morone Mola

Medalist, Milanese (?), active 1627 - 1669

The sculpture depicts a profile relief of a man wearing a papal tiara and ornate robes, signifying his importance and rank, likely a pope identified as Alexander VII from the inscription. The material appears to be bronze with a dark brown, slightly matte metal finish that is polished on the raised areas, giving it a copper-like appearance. The sculpture is a circular medallion featuring detailed bas-relief rendering of the figure, allowing viewers to appreciate the intricate patterns and textures of the attire and headgear. An inscription around the border adds to its historical and informational value.

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): 4.17 cm (1 5/8 in.)
    gross weight: 17.54 gr (0.039 lb.)
    axis: 12:00

  • Accession Number

    1997.114.26.a

Associated Artworks

The sculpture is a medallion featuring a scene depicting a religious or ceremonial assembly. The central subject shows a seating arrangement in an amphitheater-like setting, with a figure seated on a platform. Below, smaller figures are gathered around a large bowl or basin, with rows of figures flanking the steps. Ornate columns on either side are adorned with figures, and a cross can be seen in the center at the bottom. The sculpture is predominantly bronze in color and made of metal, with detailed relief work on each figure. The edges of the medallion contain inscriptions. The sculpture is circular with a hole at the top, likely for suspension or display.

Canonization of Saint Francis of Sales in Saint Peter's [reverse]

Gasparo Morone Mola

1665

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. 842, repro.

Inscriptions

around circumference: ALEXAN.VII.PONT.MAX.AN.XI.; below truncation: .G.M.

Wikidata ID

Q63861782

You may be interested in

Loading Results