Portrait medal of Jacques Boyceau (obverse); Allegory of the Cycle of Life (reverse) 1624

Editor: This bronze medal, made by Abraham Dupré in 1624, shows Jacques Boyceau. There's something very serious and formal about it; the man looks so distinguished. What do you find interesting about this piece? Curator: This medal isn’t just a portrait; it’s a miniature world encapsulating power and legacy. Notice the incised inscription encircling Boyceau - each letter carefully considered, a baroque dance of script and form. Dupré doesn't merely depict Boyceau, he crafts him into an icon. Who do you think would commission something like this? What statement are they trying to make? Editor: Maybe someone wanting to commemorate Boyceau’s achievements, or perhaps Boyceau himself! It seems like a pretty important way to be remembered. Curator: Exactly! It's a curated image meant to immortalize. This medal reminds me of the small everyday interactions that might get captured and magnified, the moments people think of later and can feel a real shift, the reverberating, small details of a big story, like…well, I should probably get back to the medal. It looks as though there may have been some damage to it - can you see where? How does that impact its message to you? Editor: I see the chip along the top edge, like something fell on it. I think it's almost endearing! It makes it feel like a real object that has survived and isn’t just an untouchable artifact. Curator: Yes! Maybe its little imperfection adds to the bigger, perfectly preserved legacy it creates. Each of our lives – and the art we create – carry tiny imperfections that just might make a powerful mark. Editor: That’s a beautiful thought; it definitely adds another layer to appreciating this artwork! Thanks for that.