Philip Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield (1694–1773)
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
Diameter: 54 mm
Classification
Medals and Plaquettes
Culture
Swiss
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Assunta Sommella Peluso, Ada Peluso, and Romano I. Peluso, in memory of Ignazio Peluso, 2003
Accession Number
2003.406.22
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze medal portrays Philip Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield (1694–1773), a prominent British statesman, diplomat, and man of letters celebrated for his witty advice in *Letters to His Son*. Struck in 1743 when Chesterfield was at the height of his influence—having served as ambassador to The Hague and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland—the profile view captures his refined features with classical poise, evoking Roman coinage traditions. Crafted by Swiss artist Jacquesoine Dassier, a master medallist from Geneva's renowned Dassier family, the 54 mm diameter piece exemplifies 18th-ce...