Cardinal Francesco degli Alidosi
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.Obverse: This is the only known medal by the celebrated Bolognese goldsmith and painter. It combines a goldsmith’s precision and a learned artist’s references to the coins and sculpture of classical antiquity. The medal was modeled sometime between Alidosi’s appointment as Cardinal Legate in 1505, ruling Bologna on behalf of the Pope, and his murder in 1511.
Reverse: The body of Jupiter, shown brandishing a thunderbolt, is based on an ancient Roman sculpture that though a fragment was already hugely famous – the Belvedere Torso, recently discovered in Rome. This reference reminds the viewer that Alidosi’s power came from his position in Papal Rome – and that the medal itself revived an antique form.
Reverse: The body of Jupiter, shown brandishing a thunderbolt, is based on an ancient Roman sculpture that though a fragment was already hugely famous – the Belvedere Torso, recently discovered in Rome. This reference reminds the viewer that Alidosi’s power came from his position in Papal Rome – and that the medal itself revived an antique form.
Artwork Details
- Title: Cardinal Francesco degli Alidosi
- Maker: Francesco Francia (Italian, Bologna ca. 1447–1517 Bologna)
- Date: ca. 1505–1511
- Culture: Italian
- Medium: Bronze
- Classification: Medals and Plaquettes
- Credit Line: Collection of Dr. Stephen K. and Janie Woo Scher
- Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts