Giovanni Mels, died 1559, Jurist [obverse]
mid 16th century
![Giovanni Mels, died 1559, Jurist [obverse] by Giovanni da Cavino](https://images.artheonmuseum.org/nga/thumb/giovanni-mels-died-1559-jurist-obverse-nga-45024.webp)
Medium
bronze//Struck
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 3.86 cm (1 1/2 in.) gross weight: 32.94 gr (0.073 lb.) axis: 6:00
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Accession Number
1957.14.986.a
Art Historical Context
Behold this exquisite bronze medal by Giovanni da Cavino, master Paduan artist of the mid-16th century, capturing the dignified portrait of Giovanni Mels a prominent jurist who died in 9. Measuring just 3.86 cm in diameter and weighing nearly 33 grams, this bronze piece exemplifies the Renaissance fascination with classical antiquity. The obverse features Mels in profile, a format inspired by ancient Roman coins, highlighting his intellectual stature in an era when such medals served as portable tributes to scholars, rulers, and civic leaders. Cavino's skill shines in the high-relief striking...
About the Artist
Giovanni da Cavino · 1500–1570
**Giovanni da Cavino: The Paduan Master of Medals and Antiquity** Giovanni da Cavino, born in May 1500 in Padua to goldsmith Bartolommeo di Giovanni from Cavino d'Arsego, inherited his family's craft from an early age. His father served as his initial master until Bartolommeo's death in 1517, after which Cavino trained in the workshop of the renowned Paduan sculptor Andrea Riccio (1470–1532), who...