Shield Supported by Hercules and Janus [reverse]

c. 1503

Master of Coriolanus

Associated Names
Master of Coriolanus

Artist, Italian, active c. 1500

The sculpture is a round, coin-like medallion with a central emblem or coat of arms and two human figures on each side. The emblem includes a shield with symbols and patterns, a crowned bird's head, and a text inscription in Latin. The figures are depicted in a classical style, standing with a leg extended and arms outstretched towards the center emblem, holding draped cloths. The sculpture is golden in color with a textured and slightly worn appearance. It appears to be made from a material like bronze or a gold-colored alloy and has detailed carvings.

Media Options

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On View

West Building Ground Floor, Gallery G16

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    bronze//Yellowish patina

  • Credit Line

    Samuel H. Kress Collection

  • Dimensions

    overall (diameter): 5.35 cm (2 1/8 in.)
    gross weight: 46.19 gr (0.102 lb.)

  • Accession Number

    1957.14.273.b

Associated Artworks

The image shows a circular medallion or relief sculpture depicting a historical battle scene. The central subject is a group of armored warriors engaged in combat, with several horses and riders in motion surrounded by foot soldiers clashing in battle. The background features a fortified city with detailed walls and towers. Inscriptions reading "CONSALVI AGIDARTI VICTORIA" and "DE GALLIS AD CANNAS" appear at the top and bottom of the sculpture. Crafted from bronze, the sculpture has a metallic gold-brown color. The figures are prominently displayed in high relief, showing intricate details on armor and muscular forms of humans and horses. The scene conveys a dynamic and action-filled depiction of a battlefield.

The Battle of Cannae [obverse]

Master of Coriolanus

1503

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Gustave Dreyfus [1837-1914], Paris; his estate; purchased 1930 by (Duveen Brothers, Inc., London and New York); purchased 1945 by the Samuel H. Kress Foundation, New York; gift 1957 to NGA.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

across top: CONSALVVS / AGIDARIVS [for "Agilarius"] TVR[CIS]. / GAL[LIS].DEI R[EGIS].Q[UE].C[AUSA].D[EVICTIS]. / DICTA TOR.III; across bottom: PARTA ITALIAE / PACE IANVM / CLAVSIT (The Turks and French having been overcome for God and king, Gonzalo de Aguilar, in his third dictatorship having produced peace for Italy, closed the doors of the temple of Janus)

Wikidata ID

Q63815044

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