Francesco degli Alidosi, c. 1455-1511, Cardinal of Pavia 1505, Legate of Bologna and Romagna 1508 [obverse]

Art Historical Context

This bronze portrait medal, created by the Bolognese artist Francesco Francia around 1508–1510, captures Cardinal Francesco degli Alidosi at the height of his ecclesiastical power. As Legate of Bologna and Romagna, Alidosi wielded significant political influence under Pope Julius II, and the medal’s timing aligns closely with his appointment. Francia, celebrated for both paintings and medals, employed the classical profile format typical of Renaissance numismatic art to convey dignity and authority. Cast in bronze, a medium prized for its durability and ability to capture fine detail, the obverse likely features Alidosi’s likeness on one side, a format widely used to commemorate prominent figures. Such medals served as portable tokens of patronage and status, circulated among elites to reinforce alliances and legacy. Francia’s refined modeling reflects the period’s revival of ancient Roman coinage traditions, blending humanist ideals with contemporary political symbolism. Housed in the National Gallery of Art’s Samuel H. Kress Collection, this intimate work (just under 6 cm in diameter) offers visitors a tangible connection to early 16th-century Italian court culture and the artistic innovations that elevated medals to high art.

About the Artist

Francesco Francia · 1447–1517

Influential Bolognese painter of his period, noted for sweet, softly rounded Madonnas and portraits. Influenced by Costa, his partner, and by Perugino. Comment on works: Religious