Fortune Bestowing Fame 

This bronze relief, Fortune Bestowing Fame, was made by Cristoforo di Geremia in Italy, sometime in the 15th century. It depicts a winged figure of Fame, holding a trumpet and a cornucopia, sitting on a sphere. The Italian Renaissance saw the rise of powerful families, who often used art to legitimize their status and to create a sense of cultural authority. Medals like these were often commissioned by wealthy patrons to commemorate events or to celebrate their own achievements. The image of Fame, derived from classical antiquity, speaks to the ambitions of these patrons, suggesting they sought lasting renown. The sphere might allude to their worldly power or to the reach of their influence. To fully understand this medal, we can investigate the social and economic conditions of Renaissance Italy, the role of patronage in the art world, and the classical sources that inspired artists like di Geremia. Understanding the institutions of the time helps us appreciate the significance of these artworks.