Summary

Copy ofthe obverse of a medal bearing a portrait of Pope Gregory XIV (1590-1591). The original medal, by Niccolo de Bonis, was struck in about 1590. This uniface electrotype copy was made circa 1881Robert Ready. The original medal was exhibited in the King's Library of the British Museum in 1881 and is No. 331 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 two sided struck bronze the electrotype copper plated and toned.

"Nicolo Sfondrato, of a noble family of Cremona, son of Francesco Sfondrato; b., 1535; bishop of Cremona, 1560 ; pope, 1590 ; died ten months after his election. Before his elevation he had taken a conspicuous part in the Council of Trent" (King's Library Catalogue, 1881, p.85). He forbad slavery in the Philipines in April 1591.

Obverse Description

Bust of Gregory XIV facing right wearing cape and cap; around, . GREGORIVS . Xllll . PON . MAX .; on bust truncation, NIC . BONIS

Reverse Description

Not held (Ceres, facing, looking l., holding ears of corn and cornucopiae . DIEBVS . FAMIS . SATVRAB)

Edge Description

Plain

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