Portrait Medal of Bernardo de Rossi

Art Historical Context

This exquisite *Portrait Medal of Bernardo de Rossi* by Francesco Francia, dated around 1520 (though possibly cast in the seventeenth century), exemplifies the Renaissance fascination with classical antiquity and individualized portraiture. Crafted in bronze—a copper alloy now graced with an olive green to brown patina—the measures 2 9/16 inches (6.5 cm) in diameter weighs 127.96 grams. Bologna-born Francia (c. 1450–1517), a master painter, goldsmith, and medallist, blended Northern Italian precision with antique Roman coin influences, making his works prized collectibles among humanists and clergy. The obverse likely features a detailed profile of Bernardo de Rossi, the erudite Bishop of Parma (1468–1521), a noted patron of the arts and scholar whose likeness captures Renaissance ideals of intellect and dignity. The reverse incorporates symbolic motifs like eagles, profiles, and figures of men and women, evoking heraldry or allegorical themes tied to ecclesiastical power and classical mythology. Portrait medals like this served as portable memorials, diplomatic gifts, or personal talismans, bridging sculpture and printmaking in an era of burgeoning collecting. Housed in the Robert Lehman Collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (1975 acquisition), this piece highlights the technical virtuosity of Renaissance bronze casting—struck or hammered for sharp relief—and its cultural role in immortalizing influential figures. A testament to Francia's enduring legacy, it invites visitors to ponder the intimate scale of historical memory.

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