Eagle with Spread Wings Supporting a Platform of Symbolic Objects [reverse] 1468

Curator: Look at the rich detail in this bronze relief, a medal created in 1468 by Clemente da Urbino, called "Eagle with Spread Wings Supporting a Platform of Symbolic Objects." Editor: The material itself – the cool, weighty bronze – it gives this piece a real sense of gravitas, almost a somber feeling, don't you think? Curator: Definitely. And it's layered with symbolism, isn't it? The eagle, traditionally representing power and empire, is grounding a platform laden with significant objects. Each element tells a story. Editor: It makes me think about the labor involved in producing something like this. Bronze casting in the 15th century wasn't easy. The artist clearly had command of the process and had people to produce this in large scale, it gives prestige to the commissioner. Curator: Precisely. The symbolic objects - a helmet and sword on one side and a sort of classical altar with festoon on the other side- coupled with what looks like planetary symbols are likely representing not only strength, but intellect, too, as if they belong to separate areas on the two different platforms. It’s not just about power. It is alluding to Federico da Montefeltro, duke of Urbino, to a cultural lineage, invoking not only might, but learning, as well. Editor: How fascinating. The medal becomes more than just a commemoration; it’s almost a portable claim to legitimacy through material means. The craftsmanship also shows off wealth and influence in that time. Curator: Absolutely. Think about what these symbolic objects may have communicated to an aristocratic class who knew to decipher its esoteric messages: a link to antiquity and military virtues that also have deep rooted meanings associated with the Roman empire and religion. Editor: So, from material production to layered meaning, it's clear this object was made to broadcast very specific social and cultural values. Curator: It offers insight into the society that valued it and those symbols it employs to elevate someone and to communicate their virtues to the world. It helps bring a forgotten voice to the surface again. Editor: The careful hand and the symbolic density makes me see it as more than just a piece of propaganda.