Temple Surmounted by Figure of Saint Michael [reverse] 1464

Editor: We're looking at the reverse side of a bronze medal, "Temple Surmounted by Figure of Saint Michael," created by Francesco Laurana in 1464. It's remarkably small, yet it depicts quite an architectural feat. There is text going all around the medal's edge! What strikes you most about it? Curator: Ah, Laurana's medals. They're little universes, aren't they? I’m drawn to how Laurana captures power through miniature architectural rendering and symbolic overlaying of Saint Michael, almost daring you to ignore it. It isn't about mere depiction but, perhaps, capturing intangible concepts like divine rule or earthly ambition, right? Editor: I can see that! The temple seems solid, but Saint Michael has wings. So how do you interpret the inscription surrounding the piece? I admit my Latin is rusty. Curator: Oh, that's half the fun. It's partly eroded with time but basically invokes strength of King René's realm... but that building: the structure reminds us that ideals – power, piety, justice - need solid foundations... which need to stay within certain realms. Doesn’t the image speak to that? Editor: It does. Almost like a controlled explosion of faith and dominion… all held within the confines of this small metal disc. But I still have no idea about those specific letters. What could that mean in Laurana's art and thinking? Curator: Well, sometimes meaning isn't always explicit, especially centuries later. Some is lost; some might not have even been meant to be "found". Maybe Laurana challenges us to not find easy answers? And instead feel how those Roman characters surround you like some architecture? Editor: So the art isn’t always the answer itself, but instead an endless array of interesting questions? I think I like that better than easy answers, actually. Curator: It’s more poetic that way, isn’t it?