Giovanni II Bentivoglio

Art Historical Context

This exquisite bronze medal, titled *Giovanni II Bentivoglio*, was crafted by the renowned Italian medallist Savelliandio in the 15th century. Measuring 1 3/8 inches in diameter, it captures the profile of Giovanni II Bentiv, the influential lord of Bologna who ruled from 1462 1506. Sperandio, active in cities like Bologna and, was a master of the Renaissance of classical portraiture, drawing inspiration from ancient Roman coins create these intimate, high-relief sculptures. Portrait medals like this one emerged in 15th-century Italy as novel art form, blending sculpture, engraving, and numis...