Mary Stuart, 1542-1587, Queen of Scots [obverse]
17th century
![Mary Stuart, 1542-1587, Queen of Scots [obverse] by British 17th Century](https://images.artheonmuseum.org/nga/thumb/mary-stuart-1542-1587-queen-of-scots-obverse-nga-45528.webp)
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 5.42 cm (2 1/8 in.) gross weight: 76.46 gr (0.169 lb.) axis: 12:00
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Accession Number
1957.14.1282.a
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze medal, measuring just 5.42 cm in diameter, captures the likeness of Mary Stuart (1542–1587), the tragic Queen of Scots, on its obverse side. Crafted by a British artist in the 17th century—over half a century after her execution—this small-scale sculpture exemplifies the era's fascination with Renaissance and Tudor history. Weighing a substantial 76.46 grams, its hefty bronze medium lends a sense of permanence and gravitas, typical of commemorative medals that served as portable works of art for collectors and scholars. Mary Stuart's life was a whirlwind of royal intrigu...