Minerva Holding an Olive Branch and a Spear [reverse] 1579

Curator: This bronze relief sculpture by Gaspare Romanelli, titled “Minerva Holding an Olive Branch and a Spear”, was crafted in 1579. The detail is stunning, especially considering its purpose as a medal. Editor: It's interesting how weighty it feels despite its relatively small scale. Minerva herself projects a powerful serenity, almost as if the metal contains her stoic presence. Curator: Yes, Romanelli really captures that essence. He had an interesting career. As a goldsmith, he was later employed by the papal mint and worked at the court in Ferrara. The layering of Roman identity on the powerful ruling families shows how those families built on cultural values and norms to construct political authority. Editor: Speaking of her symbolism, she is holding both the olive branch, representing peace, and the spear which indicates war. What does this contrast mean within the piece, would you say? Curator: That's precisely the question it poses, isn't it? Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare, often carries these symbols together. This piece is likely meant to convey the idea that strength and military might are necessary to maintain peace and ensure prosperity, values that leaders and elites often cultivate in art patronage. The image speaks to ideals of enlightened rule during the Renaissance. Editor: The inscription bordering the image certainly adds to that, framing Minerva as ‘inventrix oleae et artium’ – the discoverer of olive oil and the arts, if my Latin serves. I would say this all ties in with a very specific political and social moment. Curator: Indeed. Remember, the image of Minerva and the arts, especially when tied to practical achievements like the discovery of olive oil, connects directly to notions of civilized rule and the benefits brought by leaders. This sculpture reinforces very specific notions of legitimate authority. Editor: Right, almost acting as propaganda, carefully positioning Minerva with specific attributes to reinforce social standing through the visual symbol. Fascinating! It is amazing how images take on specific weights over time! Curator: Agreed! It truly gives a deeper appreciation for this carefully crafted historical artifact, doesn't it?