Aloisio, 16th century

The depicted Aloisio, was Count of Ladrone and Councillor to Emperor Ferdinand I and Chamberlain of Archduke Ferdinand II. Cast in bronze or lead, the Renaissance portrait medal commemorated individuals or events. They were used as gifts and mementoes and were inspired by Roman coins, with their portraits of rulers and allegorical representations on the reverse, excavated all over Italy and eagerly collected by humanists. Many specialist sculptors were attracted to the art form. It was recognised that there was a ready market for medals among the growing class of collectors, usually members of the intelligensia or the gentry, who were attracted to small-scale works of art. The medal format proved ideal for this type of personal and intimate object.

Medal depicts on the obverse bust to left of Aloisio, bearded, in armour. Inscription. No reverse