Louis XII, 1462-1515, King of France 1498
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 6.02 cm (2 3/8 in.) gross weight: 52.06 gr (0.115 lb.)
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Accession Number
1957.14.1124
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze medallion portrays Louis XII (1462–1515), King of France from 1498, crafted by an anonymous French artist around 1500, just two years into his reign Measuring a mere 6 cm in diameter and weighing only 52 grams, it exemplifies the Renaissance fascination with portrait medals—small, portable sculptures that combined artistry with personal commemoration. Likely intended for collectors, nobles, or even as a royal gift, such pieces democratized access to regal imagery beyond grand monuments. Historically, Louis XII's rule bridged the late Middle Ages and High Renaissance, mar...