Isotta degli Atti (with elephant reverse)
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.Obverse: Following her name, in the part of the inscription that is often occupied by a sitter’s title, Isotta is said to have ornamented all Italy by her beauty and virtue, two concepts that were considered strictly interrelated. Isotta was the mistress of the Lord of Rimini. Most unusually, they went on to marry. This medal sought to legitimize their union then and forever.
Reverse: Both the meaning of the gloriously observed elephant and the choice of date – 1446 – are somewhat mysterious, given that the medal was made some years afterwards. The date may mark the beginning of Isotta’s illicit love affair with the Lord of Rimini and the elephant has been interpreted as signifying fame, chastity and magnanimity.
Reverse: Both the meaning of the gloriously observed elephant and the choice of date – 1446 – are somewhat mysterious, given that the medal was made some years afterwards. The date may mark the beginning of Isotta’s illicit love affair with the Lord of Rimini and the elephant has been interpreted as signifying fame, chastity and magnanimity.
Artwork Details
- Title: Isotta degli Atti (with elephant reverse)
- Maker: Matteo de' Pasti (Italian, Verona ca. 1420–after 1467 Rimini)
- Date: ca. 1450
- 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