Ippolita di Ferdinando Gonzaga (1535–1563) 1551 - 1552

This bronze medal of Ippolita di Ferdinando Gonzaga was made by Leone Leoni, sometime in the mid-16th century. The Italian Renaissance was a time of great social change, driven by the rise of powerful families who sought to legitimize their status through displays of wealth and patronage of the arts. Leoni was a sculptor and medalist working for the Habsburg emperors, among other rulers. Medals like this one functioned as portable portraits, ideal for diplomatic gifts or personal keepsakes. The inscription around the edge identifies the sitter as Ippolita Gonzaga, a member of a prominent noble family. Her elaborate hairstyle, jewelry, and clothing all speak to her elevated social standing. The circulation of such images helped to solidify the power and prestige of the ruling classes. Art historians use a range of sources, from archival documents to fashion studies, to understand the social context in which these objects were created and consumed. By studying the visual codes and conventions of the time, we can gain insight into the complex relationship between art, power, and social identity.