Summary

Copy of a medal of Michelangelo Buonarroti. The original medal, by Lione Lioni, was made in about 1564. This Electrotype copy made circa 1881 by Robert Ready. The original medal from the collection of George III (Reg: G3,IP.119) was exhibited in the King's Library of the British Museum in 1881 and is No. 98 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 late 1880s. The original medal is cast bronze, this electrotype is copper plated and toned.

The original medals (2 silver and 2 bronze) were sent to Michelangelo on 14 March 1561 at which time he was 86. He was 88 when he died in 1564, this medal must reflect that.

Obverse Description

Bust of Michelangelo Buonarroti facing right, bearded, wearing a hooded cassock; around, MICHAELANGELVS . BONARROTVS . FLOR . AET.S .ANN 88 .; on neck truncation the artist's signature, LEO

Reverse Description

A blind man, half-naked, with staff and flask, walking to right led by a dog; around, DOCEBO . INIQVOS . V . T . ET . IMPII . AD . TE CONVER . (Translation: I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners shall be converted to you (Psalm LI,13))

Edge Description

Plain

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