The Triumph of the Church
Unknown Artist
last quarter 16th century
Medium
Lead
Dimensions
H. 2 11/16 x W. 5 in. (6.8 x 12.7 cm.)
Classification
Medals and Plaquettes
Culture
Netherlandish
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Erich Lederer Collection, Gift of Mrs. Erich Lederer, 1986
Accession Number
1986.319.47
Tags
Art Historical Context
Crafted in the last quarter of the 16 century by an unknown Netherlandish artist,The Triumph of the Church is a delicate lead plaquette measuring just 2 11/16 by 5 inches. These small-scale relief sculptures, classified as medals and plaquettes, were popular in Renaissance Europe as affordable, portable artworks—often used for personal devotion, commemoration, or subtle propaganda. Lead, a less precious medium than bronze or gold, allowed for wider distribution while preserving fine details in low relief. The title evokes a classic allegorical theme of ecclesiastical victory, likely depicting...