Annia Galeria Faustina, wife of Marcus Aurelius 16th century

Giovanni del Cavino's 16th century bronze medal, depicting Annia Galeria Faustina, the wife of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, is a testament to the artist's skill in capturing the likeness of his subject. The medal's small diameter and intricate details demonstrate the artist's dedication to realism, a hallmark of Renaissance portraiture. The inscription around the bust of Faustina identifies her, further emphasizing the historical context of the work. The medal, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a valuable example of the artistic and historical significance of Renaissance bronze medals.