Summary

Copy of a medal bearing a portrait of Cardinal Ascanio Maria Sforza. The original medal, by an unknown artist, was made in the 15th Century. This uniface electrotype copy was made circa 1881 by Robert Ready. It is thought that this electrotype was produced in association with an exhibition of Italian medals in the King's Library in 1881 (No. 41 in the catalogue) and was acquired by the National Gallery of Victoria where it was displayed probably in the late 1880s.This uniface electrotype is copper plated and toned. The original was bronze cast, two sided medal with the electrotype taken from its obverse, the reverse depicting a woman sacrificing over an altar.

"Ascanio Maria, younger brother of Galeazzo and Ludovico, was banished by the regent Bona to Perugia in 1477; bishop of Pavia, 1479; cardinal, 1484; nominated governor of Milan by Ludovico, 1500; d., 1505. There is a fine monument of Ascanio Sforza by Andrea Sansovino, in the Church of Sta. Maria del Popolo, Rome." King's Gallery Catalogue, 1881, p. 18

Obverse Description

Bust of Ascanio facing right wearing Cardinal's cape, bare-headed; around, ASCANIVS MA CAR SFOR VICECO S R E VICECANCE

Reverse Description

Plain

Edge Description

Plain

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