Summary

Copy in two halves of a medal of Leonello d'Este. The original medal was made circa 1441 to 1444 by Antonio Pisano (Pisanello). This Electrotype copy made circa 1881 by Robert Ready. The original medal was acquired by the British Museum and later exhibited in the King's Library in 1881. It is No. 44 in the catalogue of that exhibition. It is thought that this electrotype was produced in association with that exhibition and publication and acquired by the National Gallery of Victoria where it was displayed in the mid 1880s.

Leonello was 12th Marquis of Este and Ferrara, Duke of Modena and Reggio Emilia. He married Mary of Aragon (commemorated by medal NU 37346) daughter of Alphonso V of Two Sicilies, Naples etc. Leonello built the first hospital in Ferrara. The blindfolded lynx depicted on the reverse of this medal was a symbol of statecraft.

Obverse Description

Bust of Leonello facing left, head bare, with part of bust in tunic; around, . LEONELLVS . MARCHIO . ESTENSIS D . FERRARIE . REGII . 7 . MVTINE .

Reverse Description

A blindfolded lynx seated facing left on a cushion, PISANVS PICTOR FECIT

Edge Description

Plain

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