Niccolò d'Este, Marquess of Ferrara (1384?–1441) 1432 - 1446

Editor: This is a bronze relief sculpture entitled "Niccolò d'Este, Marquess of Ferrara" made by Amadeo da Milano between 1432 and 1446. I find it intriguing. It has an ancient, regal feeling to it, something very Roman perhaps. What catches your eye? Curator: Funny you mention the Roman feeling. The Italian Renaissance was precisely when they started looking back to antiquity for inspiration. I feel this pull myself when I see this. It's a medal, a status symbol if you will, like a fifteenth-century power-broker’s business card. Tell me, does the hat strike you as particularly odd? Editor: It does. It almost looks a bit like a turban. Why that kind of hat? Curator: Good eye. Details like that often signify status, allegiance, or even just personal flair. Niccolò d’Este clearly wanted to project an image of power and perhaps even a hint of exoticism. The choice to immortalize himself in bronze, like the Roman emperors of old, makes a strong statement too, wouldn't you say? Editor: Absolutely! It’s like he’s saying, "I’m important, remember me!" Curator: Precisely. Although, it's amusing to think how self-conscious he might have been about his profile. Editor: Ha! Very true. So, it's more than just decoration, it’s a carefully constructed image. I never thought about medals having that sort of…propaganda purpose. Curator: All art has a purpose. Next time you are deciding what photo to post online, ask yourself, what am I trying to communicate here? And is my hat as dignified as Niccolò’s?