Ippolita Gonzaga, 1535-1563, daughter of Ferrante Gonzaga [obverse]

1551

Leone Leoni

Associated Names
Leone Leoni

Artist, Milanese, c. 1509 - 1590

The relief depicts a female figure identified as Hyppolita Gonzaga. The figure is portrayed in profile facing left, with detailed hair, a jeweled headpiece, and an elaborate garment with ornate patterns. The sculpture is part of a bronze medal with a circular border containing text. The aged surface of the medal enhances the relief's details.

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Artwork overview

Associated Artworks

The sculpture depicted is on a round object resembling a coin or medallion. In the center, a woman wearing flowing garments holds a snake in her raised left hand and an arrow in her right. Two dogs walk at her feet. To her left, a male figure sits against a column, partially obscured by foliage. In the background are stylized trees and structures, perhaps representing a natural setting. An inscription in Latin runs across the top edge. The sculpture is a metallic color, possibly bronze, contributing to its aged and intricate appearance. The overall impression is one of storytelling through art within the circular form.

Ippolita as Diana with Hunting Dogs in a Landscape with Pluto and Cerberus [reverse]

Leone Leoni

1551

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Purchased c. 1978 by E.R.A. Unger, Richmond, England; (sale, Glendining's, London, 10 June 1987, no. 320); purchased through (Cyril Humphris, Ltd., London) by NGA.

Associated Names

Bibliography

2007

  • Pollard, John Graham. Renaissance Medals. The Collections of the National Gallery of Art Systematic Catalogue. 2 vols. Washington, 2007: 1:no. 494, repro.

Inscriptions

around circumference: HIPPOLYTA . GONZAGA . FERDINANDI . FIL . AN. XVI / AE N APHTINO

Wikidata ID

Q63860941

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