Gian Lorenzo Bernini 1674

François Chéron created this bronze medal of Gian Lorenzo Bernini in the late 17th century. Note Bernini’s profile, framed by the inscription providing his name and age: seventy-six. In antiquity, the profile portrait was the preferred view of rulers on coins, and this view often endures in commemorative medals such as this. Now, consider how the profile, seemingly simple, has echoed through time. From Roman emperors to Renaissance nobles, this view embodies authority and nobility. This symbolism, passed down through generations, carries a psychological weight, appealing to our ingrained recognition of leadership. Observe the way Bernini's image is captured: the fine lines etched around his eye, which convey not just age, but also wisdom. It reflects a deeper, almost subconscious connection with the past, evoking a sense of enduring legacy. The profile, therefore, is not merely a representation, but a cyclical return of symbols—re-emerging, adapting, and renewing its significance across the epochs.