Marcellus II (Marcello Corvino, 1501-1555), Pope 1555 1555

Curator: My goodness, there's something so immediate about it, almost like a flattened, metallic moon. An otherworldly papal presence! Editor: Indeed! We're looking at a metal sculpture, specifically a portrait medal of Marcellus II, who reigned as Pope in 1555. Giovanni Antonio de' Rossi is credited with crafting this striking piece. Curator: De' Rossi, you say? It’s strange, the stark profile juxtaposed with the detailed ornamentation of his papal robes. Almost like a halo etched in fabric. I wonder what sort of person De’ Rossi was? One of unwavering precision perhaps, to capture him so concisely within that circumference? Editor: Given Marcellus II's very short reign – just a little over three weeks – the medal also offers a fascinating glimpse into the politics of papal portraiture. Who commissioned this and why becomes particularly compelling with such limited time in power. Perhaps an appeal to permanence and legacy? Curator: Legacy forged in metal! It's a clever tactic really, to physically impress oneself onto an object. The weight alone is meaningful; how different than, say, a painting? It bestows an almost physical influence… and I can’t help but think of coins of the time too. I'm also curious as to what its purpose was then? Something for gifting perhaps? Editor: Quite possibly. Medals such as these served a variety of purposes. From diplomatic gifts to personal keepsakes or declarations of allegiances. Considering the complexities and machinations within the Renaissance Vatican, this could’ve played any number of roles, depending on who received it and under what circumstances. What also draws my attention are the materials… it’s difficult to fully ascertain it from here, but its finish might signify a deliberate artistic or political intention. Curator: You make me want to reach out and touch its surface... that muted gleam hints at so much. Maybe this wasn’t about glorification, but careful and very considered messaging instead? He was only Pope for 22 days! He barely even had the time to make mistakes before they put this into production! Perhaps a commemorative marker that signalled promise, rather than an illustration of achievement. It's more than just a snapshot. It's a captured echo. Editor: Exactly. These kinds of portraits of power were never just about the individual. It reflected and played within the networks of power and the ideological constructs of the Papacy itself. Curator: Yes, absolutely. Thinking of all of this is more than what I could imagine just looking at it at first glance. So thank you. Editor: My pleasure! It's a good reminder that a simple medal, even from centuries ago, has layers waiting to be revealed and reconsidered.