Genius Holding a Dolphin and Sacrificing [reverse]
![Genius Holding a Dolphin and Sacrificing [reverse] by Giovanni da Cavino](https://images.artheonmuseum.org/nga/thumb/genius-holding-a-dolphin-and-sacrificing-reverse-nga-45023.webp)
Medium
bronze//Struck
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 3.72 cm (1 7/16 in.) gross weight: 24.51 gr (0.054 lb. axis: 6:00
Classification
Sculpture
Department
CSD
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Accession Number
1957.14.985.b
Art Historical Context
This striking bronze medal, created in 1539 by the Paduan artist Giovanni da Cavino, exemplifies the Renaissance revival of classical antiquity. Measuring just under 4 centimeters in diameter, the piece was struck rather than cast, a technique that allowed for crisp, repeatable details in the relief. As the reverse of a larger medal, it features a "genius"—a protective spirit from Roman mythology—holding a dolphin while performing a sacrificial rite, evoking themes of guardianship, the sea, and ritual devotion. Cavino, renowned for his skillful imitations of ancient Roman coins, worked during...
About the Artist
Giovanni da Cavino · 1500–1570
**Giovanni da Cavino: The Paduan Master of Medals and Antiquity** Giovanni da Cavino, born in May 1500 in Padua to goldsmith Bartolommeo di Giovanni from Cavino d'Arsego, inherited his family's craft from an early age. His father served as his initial master until Bartolommeo's death in 1517, after which Cavino trained in the workshop of the renowned Paduan sculptor Andrea Riccio (1470–1532), who...