Jacoba Francina of Ravenna (?) [obverse]
possibly 1581
![Jacoba Francina of Ravenna (?) [obverse] by Possibly Venetian 16th Century](https://images.artheonmuseum.org/nga/thumb/jacoba-francina-of-ravenna-obverse-nga-103288.webp)
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 4.2 cm (1 5/8 in.) gross weight: 26.67 gr (0.059 lb.) axis: 12:00
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin
Accession Number
1997.114.40.a
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze medal, titled *Jacoba Francina of (?) [obverse]*, invites visitors to ponder the enigmatic portrait of a woman from the late 16th century. Measuring just 4.2 cm in diameter and weighing a mere 26.67 grams, its intimate scale—ideal for wearing or collecting—exemplifies the Renaissance fascination with personal commemoration. Crafted with a precise axis at 12:00, the obverse likely features a finely detailed profile, capturing the subject's features in classical style. Possibly created by a Venetian artist around 1581, the work reflects Venice's vibrant tradition of bronze...