Philip II, 1527-1598, King of Spain 1556 [obverse]
16th century
![Philip II, 1527-1598, King of Spain 1556 [obverse] by Flemish 16th Century](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.artheonmuseum.org%2Fnga%2Fthumb%2Fphilip-ii-1527-1598-king-of-spain-1556-obverse-nga-45542.webp&w=3840&q=75)
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 5.44 cm (2 1/8 in.) gross weight: 31.7 gr (0.07 lb.) axis: 12:00
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Accession Number
1957.14.1289.a
Art Historical Context
This bronze medal, created in the 16th century by an anonymous Flemish artist, presents the obverse portrait of Philip II, who ascended as King of Spain in 1556. Measuring just over two inches in diameter, the captures the monarch in profile, a format typical of Renaissance commemorative medals designed to convey authority and legacy in a portable form. As part of the Samuel H. Kress Collection at the National Gallery of Art, it exemplifies the era’s blend of sculpture and diplomacy. During Philip’s long reign, Spain reached the height of its global power, yet the medal’s Flemish origin highl...