Pius VII (Barnaba Chiaramonti, 1742-1823), Pope 1800 [obverse]

1816

Henri François Brandt

Associated Names
Henri François Brandt

Medalist, Swiss, 1789 - 1845

The image displays a bas-relief sculpture of Pope Pius VII in profile on a coin or medallion. The sculpture is made of bronze, resulting in a metallic brown hue with an aged patina. The pope is depicted wearing a papal tiara with floral motifs and a robe with ornamental designs. The inscription "PIUS SEPTIMUS PONT. MAX. ANNO XVII" encircles the portrait, indicating the pope's title and year of pontificate. The sculpture has a classic appearance, resembling traditional minted coins.

Media Options

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

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    silver

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin

  • Dimensions

    overall (diameter): 4.29 cm (1 11/16 in.)
    gross weight: 32.88 gr (0.072 lb.)
    axis: 12:00

  • Accession Number

    1998.108.2.a

Associated Artworks

The image shows a round medallion sculpture featuring seven figures in classical attire. The figures wear robes or tunics, holding staffs or scepters, and adorned with headgear like helmets, crowns, and laurel wreaths. They are positioned to suggest interaction or a shared presence. Above them is an emblem resembling crossed keys and a parasol. The sculpture is made of bronze with raised details that catch the light. Engraved text below the figures adds historical or contextual significance. The craftsmanship includes refined detailing and artisanship. The medallion is small and detailed, likely for close viewing or as a commemorative object.

Rome and the Papal States Welcoming the Return of the Pope from Imprisonment [reverse]

Henri François Brandt

1816


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. 907, repro.

Inscriptions

around circumference: PIVS SEPTIMVS PONT.MAX.ANNO XVII.; on truncation: BRANDT F.

Wikidata ID

Q63861849

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