Portrait medal of Christine of Denmark

Jacopo Nizolla da Trezzo Italian

Not on view

Jacopo Nizzola da Trezzo was a medallist, sculptor, architect, goldmsmith and gem engraver who was active in Milan and then in the service of Philip II. This rare medal portrays the Danish king Christian II’s daughter, Christina of Denmark, known as a great beauty of considerable intelligence. Here she is styled Duchess of Milan; she was wedded to Duke Francesco II Sforza, who died soon after their marriage. In 1537, King Henry VIII sent the famed artist Hans Holbein to Brussels to paint Christina’s portrait. The picture prompted a marriage proposal, to which Christina is said to have replied: "If I had two heads, one should be at the king of England’s disposal." The reverse is blank.

Portrait medal of Christine of Denmark, Jacopo Nizolla da Trezzo (Italian, Milan 1515/19–1589 Madrid), Bronze (Copper alloy with honey-colored patina)

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Portrait medal of Christine of Denmark, Jacopo Nizolla da Trezzo (Italian, Milan 1515/19–1589 Madrid), Bronze (Copper alloy with honey-colored patina)
Portrait medal of Christine of Denmark, Jacopo Nizolla da Trezzo (Italian, Milan 1515/19–1589 Madrid), Bronze (Copper alloy with honey-colored patina)
Portrait medal of Christine of Denmark, Jacopo Nizolla da Trezzo (Italian, Milan 1515/19–1589 Madrid), Bronze (Copper alloy with honey-colored patina)
Portrait medal of Christine of Denmark, Jacopo Nizolla da Trezzo (Italian, Milan 1515/19–1589 Madrid), Bronze (Copper alloy with honey-colored patina)

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