Portrait Medal of Bernardo de Rossi 1517 - 1523

This portrait medal of Bernardo de Rossi was created by Francesco Francia. It's made from bronze and its circular shape and textured surface immediately draw us in. The raised relief gives depth to the profile of Rossi, and it’s encircled by an inscription along the edge. Francia’s focus is on capturing the essence of Rossi through the formal elements of line and form. Look at the careful modeling of Rossi's face, the subtle play of light and shadow that defines his features, and the way his clothing drapes. Each element functions as a signifier, referencing the sitter's status and character within the cultural codes of the Renaissance. The medal is not merely a representation but a carefully constructed artifact that engages with ideas about representation, identity, and power. The circular composition, with its self-contained space, emphasizes the medal’s function as a portable monument, a token that encapsulates Rossi’s public persona. The textured surface of the bronze adds another layer of meaning, reminding us of the materiality of the object and the labor involved in its creation.