Francesco I Sforza, 1401-1466, 4th Duke of Milan 1450
c. 1456
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
overall (oval): 4.25 x 3.11 cm (1 11/16 x 1 1/4 in.) gross weight: 32.31 gr (0.071 lb.)
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Accession Number
1957.14.691
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze medal, crafted by the Milanese artist Gianfrancesco Enzola 1456, portrays Francesco I Sforza1401–1466), the ambitious condottiero who seized power to become the 4th Duke of Milan 1450. Measuring just 4.25 x 3.11 cm and weighing a mere 32 grams, this oval portrait exemplifies the intimate scale of Renaissance medals—small, portable artworks worn as jewelry or kept as cherished talismans. Francesco Sforza's rise from mercenary captain to duke marked a pivotal moment in Italian history, transforming war-torn Milan into a Renaissance powerhouse under the Sforza dynasty. Enzo...