Ercole I d'Este, 1431-1505, Duke of Ferrara, Modena, and Reggio 1471 [obverse]

1505

Ferrarese 16th Century

Associated Names
Ferrarese 16th Century

Artist

The sculpture is a bas-relief medallion with a profile portrait of an individual wearing a cap and high-collared garment. The male subject is depicted in a side-facing bust from the shoulders up. It is made of metal, possibly bronze or patinated metal, with a dark brown and green coloration. The medallion is small, similar to a coin or medal in size. The border features inscriptions wrapping around the upper edge of the portrait. The relief gives the figure a distinguished look with detailed features in the hat and face. Overall, the medallion combines artistry with a historical or commemorative style.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    bronze//Weak cast

  • Credit Line

    Samuel H. Kress Collection

  • Dimensions

    overall (diameter): 9.24 cm (3 5/8 in.)
    gross weight: 219.81 gr (0.485 lb.)
    axis: 12:00

  • Accession Number

    1957.14.634.a

Associated Artworks

The image shows a round medallion-like sculpture with a detailed scene featuring small human figures or cherubic forms in raised relief. The figures are engaged in an activity, with arms outstretched or interacting with each other. Above them are floral or symbolic motifs. The outer edge has an inscription in an ancient or classical style. The sculpture appears to be made of bronze or a similar metal with an aged patina, giving it an antique appearance.

Putti Receiving Shower of Este Diamond Rings [reverse]

Ferrarese 16th Century

1505

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

Bibliography

1967

  • Hill, George Francis, and Graham Pollard. Renaissance Medals from the Samuel H. Kress Collection at the National Gallery of Art. London, 1967: no. 42.

2007

  • Pollard, John Graham. Renaissance Medals. The Collections of the National Gallery of Art Systematic Catalogue. 2 vols. Washington, 2007: 1:no. 64, repro.

Inscriptions

around circumference: HERCVLES DVX FERRARIE MVTINE ET REGII RODIGII Q[ue] COMES 1505

Wikidata ID

Q63847529

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