John VIII Palaeologus, 1392-1448, Emperor of Constantinople 1425 [obverse]
1438/1439
![John VIII Palaeologus, 1392-1448, Emperor of Constantinople 1425 [obverse] by Pisanello](https://images.artheonmuseum.org/nga/thumb/john-viii-palaeologus-1392-1448-emperor-of-nga-44314.webp)
Medium
lead//Trial cast, possibly
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 10.38 cm (4 1/16 in.) gross weight: 421.59 gr (0.929 lb.) axis: 11:00
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Accession Number
1957.14.593.a
Art Historical Context
This striking lead trial cast medal, created by the renowned Italian artist Pisanello around 1438–1439, captures the likeness of John VIII Palaeolog, Emperor of Constantinople from 1425 until his death in 144. Measuring an impressive 10.38 cm in diameter and weighing over 420 grams, it stands out as a sculptural masterpiece from the early Renaissance. Pisanello, a pioneer in the medal genre, blended exquisite portraiture with classical influences, elevating these small-scale works into portable celebrations of power and personality. The obverse features the emperor's profile, showcasing Pisane...
About the Artist
Pisanello
Antonio di Puccio Pisano, known as Pisanello (c. 1395–1455), was a pioneering Italian painter, draftsman, and medalist born in Pisa, though he spent his early years near Verona. His early training occurred in Verona under local painters, possibly Stefano da Verona or Altichiero, fostering a style rooted in Veronese traditions. Between 1415 and 1420, he served as assistant to Gentile da Fabriano, a...