Pope Paul III
16th century
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
Diameter: 1 5/8 in. (41 mm)
Classification
Medals and Plaquettes
Culture
Italian
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of Gwynne M. Andrews, 1931
Accession Number
31.33.169
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze medal, titled *Pope Paul III*, was crafted by the Italian artist Alessandro Cesati in 16th century. just 1 5/8 inches (41 mm) in diameter it exemplifies the Renaissance tradition of portrait medals and plaquettes—small, finely detailed sculptures designed for wearing, collecting, or exchange among elites. Cesati, active in Milan and Rome, renowned for his mastery of such miniature works, capturing the pope's profile with sharp, classical precision that echoes ancient Roman coinage while embracing the elegance of Mannerist portraiture. Pope Paul III (r. 1534–1549) was a p...