Louis Pasteur
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
Diam.: 17.9 cm (7 1/16 in.)
Classification
medal
Department
Painting and Sculpture of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
261685
Art Historical Context
This bronze medal, titled *Louis Pasteur* and created by French sculptor Jean Désiré Ringel dIllzach in 1884, captures the renowned scientist in a classical profile portrait, measuring just 17.9 cm in. Ringel d'Illzach, a master of medallic art during France's late 19th revival of this intimate sculptural form, exemplifies the precision and elegance of the academic tradition. Medals like this were prized as portable works of art, blending sculpture's depth with coin-like refinement, often cast or struck in bronze for their warm patina and durability. Dated to the height of Pasteur's fame, the...
About the Artist
Jean Désiré Ringel d'Illzach ( ) · 1847 –1916
Alsace 1847–1916 Strasbourg