Seated Figure of the Church [reverse]
![Seated Figure of the Church [reverse] by Giovanni Antonio de' Rossi](https://images.artheonmuseum.org/nga/thumb/seated-figure-of-the-church-reverse-nga-44984.webp)
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 7.64 cm (3 in.) gross weight: 94.9 gr (0.209 lb.) axis: 12:00
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Accession Number
1957.14.963.b
Art Historical Context
This exquisite bronze medallion, crafted by the renowned Italian artist Giovanni Antonio de Rossi in 1555, presents the reverse side featuring a *Seated Figure of the Church*. Measuring just 7.64 cm in diameter weighing nearly 95 grams, this small-scale sculpture exemplifies the Renaissance mastery of medal-making, a popular art form in 16th-century Italy for commemorating events, patrons, and allegorical themes. De' Rossi, a prominent Roman medallist who worked under papal patronage, infused his works with classical influences and intricate detailing, capturing the seated Ecclesia—personifica...