Allegory of Religion [reverse]

Art Historical Context

Filippo Cropanese's *Allegory of Religion [reverse]*, crafted in 1788, is a finely wrought bronze medal that exemplifies the neoclassical medallic art of late 18th-century Italy. Measuring just 5.3 cm in diameter and weighing 67.56 grams, this intimate sculpture invites close examination, revealing the meticulous craftsmanship typical of medals—small-scale works often cast or struck to commemorate virtues, events, or ideals. The "reverse" designation highlights its dual-sided design, a hallmark of medallic tradition where obverse and reverse together form a narrative. As an allegory, the reve...