Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta (1417-1468) c. 1902

Curator: Immediately, I'm struck by the stark relief, the way the light catches the textures. Editor: This bronze medal, dating back to the 15th century, portrays Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta. The artist remains anonymous. Curator: Note the deliberate use of the circular form, echoing classical coinage, to convey status and power. The incised lettering, too, is integral. Editor: Absolutely. Medals such as this were crucial tools for political self-fashioning. Sigismondo used imagery to cultivate his image. Curator: The portrait's sharp lines and the detailed rendering of the armor also provide a visual language. Editor: A compelling example of how art serves the ambition of its patron and of its cultural impact. Curator: Indeed, the medal displays a fine balance of form and function. Editor: Looking at its historical context helps one fully understand the artwork.