Benedict XIII (Piero Francesco Orsini, 1649-1730), Pope 1724 [obverse]

1724

Ermenegildo Hamerani

Associated Names
Ermenegildo Hamerani

Medalist, Roman, 1683 - 1756

The sculpture depicts a profile portrait of an individual wearing elaborate papal attire, including a detailed papal tiara. The figure faces to the left in a circular medal form. The top of the sculpture features the inscription "BENEDICTVS XIII." The material seems to be a bronze or bronze-like alloy, giving it a brownish-copper appearance with darker accents. The edges of the medal have an inscribed border. The piece is intricately detailed, with the texture and pattern of the papal garments meticulously rendered.

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Artwork overview

Associated Artworks

The sculpture is a relief plaque featuring numerous figures gathered around a central character. The central figure appears to be a religious leader, identified by elaborate headdress and robes. Surrounding this figure are other figures, some kneeling, with architectural elements like columns and a cross above a building entrance. The plaque is made of bronze with an aged brownish hue, giving it an antique appearance. The relief presents a narrative style with intricately carved figures.

The Opening of the Holy Door [reverse]

Giovanni Martino Hamerani

1675

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Paul Bosco, New York); purchased 1993 by Mark Wilchusky, New York; gift 1995 to NGA.[1]
[1] Provenance from curator's acquisition proposal.

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. 557, repro.

Inscriptions

around circumference: BENEDICTVS.XIII.P.M.AN.IVBIL. (Benedict XIII, Supreme Pontiff, in the Year of the Jubilee); below truncation: HAMERANVS F. (Hamerani made this)

Wikidata ID

Q63861757

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