Portrait medal of Niccolò Piccinino (obverse); A Griffin (reverse) 1440 - 1600

This bronze medal, created by the renowned Italian artist Pisanello sometime between 1440 and 1600, depicts Niccolò Piccinino, a famous condottiere, or military leader. The obverse of the medal features a profile portrait of Piccinino in full armor, while the reverse depicts a griffin, a mythical creature symbolizing strength and power. This work is a prime example of Pisanello's mastery of the portrait medal, a genre he helped to elevate to an art form. The medal is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.