Summary

Copy of the obverse of a portrait medal of Leonardo da Vinci. The original medal, by an unknown artist, was made in the 16th century. This Electrotype copy made circa 1881 by Robert Ready. The original medal (possibly from the Bank of England collection (British Museum Reg: BNK,ItM.31) was exhibited in the King's Library of the British Museum in 1881 and is No. 294 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 the electrotype copper plated and toned.

Obverse Description

Bust of Leonardo facing left in furred robe, loose cap on head; around, . LEONARDVS . VINCIVS . FLORENTINVS .

Reverse Description

Not held (A brush and pen crossed; above, wreath; beneath, landscape. . SCRIBIT . QVAM . [S]VSCITAT . ARTEM .)

Edge Description

Plain

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