Ercole I d'Este, 1431-1505, Duke of Ferrara, Modena, and Reggio 1471 [obverse]
![Ercole I d'Este, 1431-1505, Duke of Ferrara, Modena, and Reggio 1471 [obverse] by Lodovico Corradini](https://images.artheonmuseum.org/nga/thumb/ercole-i-deste-1431-1505-duke-of-ferrara-modena-nga-44383.webp)
Medium
bronze//Twice pierced, with loop
Dimensions
overall (diameter, with suspension loop): 5.95 cm (2 5/16 in.) overall (diameter, without loop): 5.6 cm (2 3/16 in.) gross weight: 72.44 gr (0.16 lb.) axis: 12:00
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Accession Number
1957.14.630.a
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze medal, crafted by Lodovico Corini in 1472, captures the likeness of Ercole I d'Este (1431–1505), who had just ascended as Duke of Ferrara, Modena and Reggio the previous year. Measuring just 5.6 cm in diameterexcluding its suspension loop), this intimate portrait—known as the obverse side—serves as a Renaissance celebration of princely power. Twice pierced and fitted with a loop, it likely worn as a pendant, blending sculpture with personal adornment in the tradition of early Italian portrait medals. Renaissance medals like this one emerged in 15th-century Italy as a dem...