Medal Depicting Matthias de' Medici (1613–1667)
Medium
Lead with wax
Dimensions
Diam.: 8.3 cm (3 1/4 in.)
Classification
medal
Department
Painting and Sculpture of Europe
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
144171
Art Historical Context
This exquisite medal, crafted by the renowned Italian artist Antonio Francesco Selvi in 9, honors Matthias de' Medici (1613–1667), a prominent member of Florence's illustrious Medici family. Selvi, a master medallist active in the 18th century, specialized in portrait medals that captured the grandeur of nobility often blending classical influences with Baroque elegance. Produced over 70 years after Matthias's death, this posthumous piece likely commemorates his legacy as a military leader, art collector, and prince who contributed to the Medici court's cultural patronage during Tuscany's Gold...
About the Artist
Antonio Francesco Selvi · 1679–1755
Antonio Francesco Selvi (1679–1753) was a prominent Florentine sculptor and medallist whose exquisite bronze portraits captured the elegance of late Baroque Italy. Little is known of his early life before he arrived in Florence in 1698, but he quickly established himself in the city's vibrant artistic scene by studying under Massimiliano Soldani-Benzi, the renowned bronze-worker, sculptor, medalli...