Triumph of King Gustavus Adolphus [reverse]

1634

Sebastian Dadler

Associated Names
Sebastian Dadler

Medalist, German, 1586 - 1657

The sculpture on the circular medallion features a scene with a skeleton seated in a chariot, holding a book and a spear. The skeleton is surrounded by figures and animals, including horses and human-like figures in classical attire. The skeleton's bony structure stands out prominently. The medallion is a metallic brown color, suggesting it is made from a material like bronze. Viewed straight on, the medallion presents a complex composition with intricate details and inscribed text on the border. The craftsmanship allows for detailed observation of expressions and movements in the scene, which includes classical and mythological motifs.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    silver

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Lisa Unger Baskin

  • Dimensions

    overall (diameter): 7.91 cm (3 1/8 in.)
    gross weight: 150.28 gr (0.331 lb.)
    axis: 12:00

  • Accession Number

    2003.154.5.b

Associated Artworks

The relief on a bronze medallion depicts a historical figure dressed in armor, surrounded by intricate details and embossed imagery. The medallion is round and made of dark bronze, with a scene of clouds and angelic figures above the central figure, who is shown lying horizontally. The border of the medallion is inscribed with text.

Death of Gustavus II Adolphus, 1594-1632, King of Sweden 1611 [obverse]

Sebastian Dadler

1634


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Purchased c. 1960/1985 by Lisa and Leonard Baskin, Leeds, Massachusetts; gift 2003 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. 914, repro.

Inscriptions

around circumference: DUX GLORIOS:PRINC:PIUS:HEROS INVICT:VICTOR INCOMPARAB:TRIUMPH:FELIX & GERM:LIBERATOR.A1634.; across field above: ET VITA ET MORTE / TRIUMPHO; on wheel of triumphal car: SD

Wikidata ID

Q63862068

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