A Pair of Eagles [right-facing eagle]
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
height: 29 cm (11 7/16 in.)
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of Robert H. Smith/Robert H. Smith Collection
Accession Number
2022.181.55.1
Art Historical Context
This striking bronze sculpture of a right-facing eagle, created around 1500–1560, captures the dynamic spirit of late medieval and early Renaissance metalwork. Likely produced in the South Netherlands or the German city of Nuremberg, the piece reflects the high level of craftsmanship in these regions, where skilled artisans specialized in casting small-scale bronzes for private collectors and civic display. Standing just 29 centimeters tall, it forms one half of a pair, suggesting it may have served as a decorative element on a larger object or as a standalone emblem of power. Bronze, valued ...