Alexander Pope (1688–1744) 1741

This bronze portrait medal of Alexander Pope was made by Jacques-Antoine Dassier in the 18th century. Depicting Pope in profile, it reflects the growing importance of writers and intellectuals in the social and cultural life of the period. Made in Britain during the height of the Enlightenment, this medallion speaks to the growing cult of celebrity around intellectuals. The formal qualities of the piece, such as the clean lines and classical profile, evoke a sense of timelessness and intellectual authority, aligning Pope with great thinkers of the past. Medallions like this were often commissioned by the wealthy or by institutions seeking to commemorate significant figures, highlighting the intersection of art, patronage, and social status. The study of such objects relies on close attention to historical context, including the biographies of both the sitter and the artist, as well as the social networks and institutions that supported their work. Ultimately, this medallion serves as a reminder that artistic expression is always shaped by the cultural and economic forces of its time.