Battle under City Walls [reverse] c. 1550

Annibale Fontana created this bronze medal in Italy, circa 1570, capturing a “Battle under City Walls.” The scene evokes classical battles, yet it reflects the turbulent Italian Wars of the 16th century, where France and the Holy Roman Empire vied for control. Consider the cultural pride and political aspirations this medal embodies. Such a piece wasn’t merely decorative; it served as propaganda, shaping public opinion and reinforcing the authority of rulers. Fontana’s depiction of victory over the French—"victis gallis"—resonates with the era’s fervent nationalism. These medals often circulated among elites, solidifying their loyalty and bolstering the ruling class's legitimacy. We can research the patronage networks, archival documents, and contemporary political treatises to unveil the medal’s intended audience and its role in constructing a specific historical narrative.